Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), India’s premier body responsible for conducting civil services examinations, has received a new chairman. President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Dr Ajay Kumar, former Defence Secretary and retired IAS officer, as the new chairman of the Commission.
Tenure and background
Dr Kumar, a 1985-batch IAS officer from Kerala cadre, will serve as UPSC Chairman for a maximum of six years or until he turns 65, whichever is earlier. His appointment comes after the completion of Preeti Sudan’s term on April 29, which left the position vacant.
Dr Kumar had served as Defence Secretary from 2019 to 2022 and is widely regarded for his contributions in national security and administrative reforms.
Anuradha Prasad appointed UPSC member
Alongside this appointment, Anuradha Prasad, a 1986-batch IAS officer of Odisha cadre, has been named as a member of the UPSC. She brings vast experience across multiple administrative roles and holds an economics degree from Lady Shri Ram College, a master’s in history from Delhi University, and a development administration degree from the University of Birmingham, UK.
UPSC structure and constitutional mandate
As per Article 316(1) of the Constitution, UPSC members, including the chairman, are appointed by the President of India. At least half of the commission’s members must have 10 years or more experience in public service.
The tenure of the chairman or any member is fixed for six years or until the age of 65, whichever comes first. For State Public Service Commissions, the age limit is 62 years.
