New Delhi, October 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday participated in the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at Bharat Mandapam, describing the institution’s 100-year journey as a reflection of the aspirations of millions of young Indians and the trust placed in it by citizens.
The programme marked the culmination of year-long celebrations that began on October 1, 2025, to commemorate the establishment of the first Public Service Commission in India in 1926. The Prime Minister released a UPSC Centenary Commemorative Coin, a commemorative stamp and a book titled 100 Landmark Judgements – Shaping the Policies of UPSC and Public Service Commissions in India.
Addressing the gathering, Modi also referred to Captain Smit Machchhar, the Indian pilot who was injured while helping avert a major in-flight crisis, and praised his courage.
“Captain Smit of India demonstrated remarkable patience, presence of mind and courage,” Modi said, adding that Machchhar’s actions had prevented a major tragedy.
The Prime Minister said he had spoken to Machchhar’s father Bhupendra, mother Gita and wife Sonal and urged citizens to pray for the pilot’s recovery.
Turning to the UPSC, Modi said the centenary was not merely a celebration of the completion of 100 years but an occasion to recognise the institution’s contribution to the country.
“Today is not only a celebration of 100 years of the UPSC, but also a celebration of its legacy. It is a celebration of the aspiration that millions of young people live every year. It is a celebration of the trust that every Indian has in this institution,” he said.
The Prime Minister also recalled the historical evolution of the civil services and referred to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who appeared for the civil service examination in 1920.
He also highlighted Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s contribution to institution-building after Independence, saying Patel had provided the “steel frame” needed to run the country and strengthened the civil services as a key institution.
“As part of this 100-year journey, a memorial, a postage stamp and a coin have just been released here. A compilation of 100 important case laws has also been released,” Modi said, urging attendees to visit the exhibition set up at the venue.
The UPSC’s institutional journey began on October 1, 1926, when the first Public Service Commission was constituted as an advisory body. Over the decades, it evolved into an independent constitutional body. The constitutional framework governing Public Service Commissions is contained in Part XIV of the Constitution, under Articles 315 to 323.
The centenary celebrations brought together chairpersons and members of State Public Service Commissions, senior government officials, academicians, UPSC officials and other stakeholders.
The two-day programme, held on September 30 and October 1, included discussions on the evolving role of civil services, public administration and institutional values.
FOLLOW NOW
