Institutional Autonomy and High-Level Appointments: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The news items reveal a persistent structural friction between executive discretion and institutional independence in India's top-tier administration. Whether it is the 'revival' of the NJAC debate, the Supreme Court's intervention in state police leadership (DGP appointments), or the contestation of the Governor’s role in universities, the overarching theme is the judiciary's attempt to shield functional domains from political 'spoils' systems. This period marks a phase where the Court is moving beyond merely protecting its own appointments to enforcing administrative accountability in the police and academia.

Cross-Theme Insight

When viewed together, the developments in the judiciary (HJS seniority), police (IG deputation rules), and bureaucracy (ACC extensions) suggest a tightening of 'rule-based' succession over 'discretionary' selection. For instance, the SC’s focus on HJS seniority rules (Thread 9) mirrors its insistence on empanelled DGP selection (Thread 3), indicating a unified judicial philosophy: that institutional stability depends on predictable, merit-based career trajectories rather than ad-hoc executive appointments.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

While standard textbooks note that the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) was declared unconstitutional and is a 'closed chapter' (D.D. Basu, p. 360), current news indicates a judicial openness to reconsider its revival (News [2025-11-27]). Similarly, while Laxmikanth outlines the Prakash Singh (2006) guidelines as the standard for police reforms (Laxmikanth, p. 636), recent SC interventions show that states are still frequently bypassing these norms, necessitating new mandates like the two-year fixed tenure for IGs (News [2026-02-01]).

How This Theme Is Evolving

In 2025-2026, the theme has shifted from 'defending the Collegium' to 'reforming the administrative CJI'. The introduction of urgent hearing reforms by the CJI and the focus on seniority in Higher Judicial Services show a judiciary looking inward to fix its own administrative delays while simultaneously asserting dominance over state-level executive appointments.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

Judicial appointment mechanisms are a 'high-yield' topic, frequently tested via Article 124 (Supreme Court) and Article 217 (High Court) as seen in NDA-II 2018 (NID: 16792) and CAPF 2018 (NID: 11031). Questions on police reforms (Prakash Singh case) appear specifically in CAPF (NID: 6704), while the Governor’s controversial role is a staple for IAS (NID: 15036). Recent trends suggest a shift from 'who appoints' to 'the process of selection' (seniority, empanelment).

Probable Prelims Angles

• Mandatory minimum tenure for Director General of Police (DGP) as per SC guidelines (2 years).
• Constitutional basis for Chief Justice of India (CJI) appointment (Article 124(2)).
• The three sources of recruitment for Higher Judicial Services (HJS): Regular Promotion, Direct Recruitment, and LDCE.
• The role of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) in extending tenures of PSU heads (e.g., ONGC).
• Statutory vs. Constitutional role of the Governor as Chancellor of State Universities.

Mains Answer Framework

• The integrity of India's democratic institutions is increasingly contingent upon the balance between executive accountability and the functional autonomy of its leadership across the judiciary, police, and academia.
• Judicial Independence: The Collegium vs. NJAC debate highlights the tension between 'concurrence' (Judiciary) and 'consultation' (Executive).. Administrative Reforms: SC's enforcement of DGP tenure and empanelment (Prakash Singh judgment) is essential to insulate police from political interference.. Institutional Governance: The Governor’s role as Chancellor often creates a 'dual-authority' crisis in state universities, affecting academic autonomy.
• True institutional reform requires not just judicial oversight but a constitutional culture where the executive respects established norms of seniority and fixed tenures to ensure governance stability.

Essay Connections

• 'Independence of the Judiciary is the cornerstone of Democracy' - Use the NJAC revival and HJS seniority rulings as evidence of the judiciary's self-cleansing and self-protective measures.

Preparation Strategy

Reading Approach

Begin with Laxmikanth Chapter 26 to master the Collegium's evolution, then move to the Prakash Singh directives in Chapter 90. Supplement this with the current news on 'non-compliance' to understand why the SC is still intervening 20 years after the original judgment.

Textbook Roadmap

• Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed. > Chapter 26 (Supreme Court). Detailed procedure for appointment of SC and HC judges (Three Judges Cases).. Threads 1, 2, 6, 12
• Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed. > Chapter 90 (Landmark Judgments). Prakash Singh vs. Union of India (2006) directives.. Thread 3
• Introduction to the Constitution of India, D. D. Basu (26th ed.). > Chapter 23. Powers and appointment of High Court Judges and District Judges.. Threads 9, 11

Revision Bullets

• Article 124(2): President appoints SC judges after consultation.
• 53rd CJI: Justice Surya Kant (Assumes office Nov 24, 2025).
• Prakash Singh Directive: DGP must be selected from 3 senior-most officers empanelled by UPSC.
• HJS Seniority: Determined by Regular Promotion, Direct Recruitment, and LDCE quotas.
• 99th Amendment: Struck down NJAC in 2015; new plea to revive filed in late 2025.
• Sanctioned Strength of SC: 34 judges (achieved in Aug 2025).

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (12 themes, 51 news items)

Senior Central Government Bureaucratic Appointments

Focus: Official appointments, tenure extensions, and personnel movements for senior-level positions in Central Ministries, Statutory Bodies (UPSC, CBI, IRDAI), and PSUs approved by the Central Government.

UPSC Value: Useful for tracking the composition of key regulatory and administrative bodies, understanding tenure security (e.g., CBI Director, UPSC Chairman), and the role of the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet.

11 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-17 [Science & Technology] — Vaishnaw Addresses AI Summit, Announces GPU Additions
  Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw addressed the India AI Impact Summit, assuring visitors of a smooth experience and announced India will add 20,000 GPUs, over and above the 38,000 already onboarded.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • India to add 20,000 GPUs, over and above 38,000 onboarded.
• 2026-01-06 [Polity & Governance] — Appointments & Recommendations by GoI
  Vibha Chahal (IAS: 2012: UP) has been appointed as Director in the Department of Food & Public Distribution for a tenure up to 07.06.2027. Ashish Saxena (ISS: 2012) has been re-designated as Director in the Ministry of Mines for a period up to 28.02.2030. Raghav Gupta (IRS IT:2012) has been re-designated as Director in the NATGRID under the Ministry of Home Affairs for a period up to 31.05.2027.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Vibha Chahal (IAS: 2012: UP) appointed as Director in the Department of Food & Public Distribution
  • Tenure up to 07.06.2027
  • Ashish Saxena (ISS: 2012) re-designated as Director in the Ministry of Mines
  • Period up to 28.02.2030
  • Central deputation tenure w.e.f. 01.03.2025
  • Raghav Gupta (IRS IT:2012) re-designated as Director in the NATGRID under the Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Period up to 31.05.2027
  • Central deputation tenure w.e.f. 01.06.2022
• 2025-12-08 [Polity & Governance] — Appointments Committee Extends Arun Kumar Singh's Tenure as ONGC Chairman
  The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has extended Arun Kumar Singh's tenure as Chairman of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) by one year, effective from 7 December 2025 to 6 December 2026.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Extension effective from: 7 December 2025 to 6 December 2026.
  • Arun Kumar Singh is the Chairman of ONGC.
• 2025-11-13 [Polity & Governance] — Ministry of Home Affairs Appointments
  The Ministry of Home Affairs announced the appointment of Shri Veerendra Kumar Mishra, IPS (MP:2012) as Director, Shri Guriqbal Singh, IPS (AGMUT:2012) as Director, Ms. Nishtha Tiwari, IRS (IT:2005) as Joint Secretary. Also, Shri G. Parthasarathi, CSS, Joint Secretary was relieved and Shri Praveen Vashista, IPS (BH:91), Special Secretary (Internal Security) voluntarily retired.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Shri Veerendra Kumar Mishra, IPS (MP:2012) appointed as Director in M/o Home Affairs
  • Shri Guriqbal Singh, IPS (AGMUT:2012) appointed as Director in Ministry Home Affairs
  • Ms. Nishtha Tiwari, IRS (IT:2005) appointed as Joint Secretary in Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Shri G. Parthasarathi, CSS, Joint Secretary relieved from Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Shri Praveen Vashista, IPS (BH:91), Special Secretary (Internal Security) voluntarily retired from Ministry of Home Affairs
• 2025-09-14 [Polity & Governance] — Amit Khare appointed Secretary to Vice President
  The government appointed retired IAS officer Amit Khare as Secretary to Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan on September 14, 2025, for a period of three years. He has been serving as Advisor to the Prime Minister since October 12, 2021, responsible for matters related to the social sector and was part of the core team for the National Education Policy, 2020. The decision was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Routine appointment; not directly testable.

  Key Facts:

  • Amit Khare
  • Secretary to Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan
  • Appointed: September 14, 2025
  • Term: Three years
  • Previously: Advisor to the Prime Minister since October 12, 2021
  • National Education Policy, 2020
  • Approved by Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC)
• 2025-08-30 [Economy] — Appointment at IMF
  The Union government has approved the appointment of former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Urjit Patel as Executive Director at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a period of three years.
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  UPSC Angle: Urjit Patel appointed Executive Director at IMF.

  Key Facts:

  • Urjit Patel: appointed as Executive Director at the IMF
  • Term: three years
• 2025-05-16 [Polity & Governance] — Dr. Ajay Kumar Appointed as UPSC Chairman
  President Droupadi Murmu has appointed Dr. Ajay Kumar as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission under Article 316 (1) of the Constitution. The UPSC conducts civil services examinations to select officers for the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Foreign Service and the Indian Police Service, among others. A UPSC chairman is appointed for a term of six years or until attaining 65 years of age, and is not eligible for reappointment after completing their term.
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  UPSC Angle: Dr. Ajay Kumar appointed as UPSC Chairman under Article 316 (1).

  Key Facts:

  • Dr. Ajay Kumar
  • Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
  • Article 316 (1) of the Constitution
  • Term: Six years or until 65 years of age
  • No reappointment
  • Maximum of 10 members besides the chairman
• 2025-05-06 [Polity & Governance] — CBI Director Appointment
  A high-level committee, headed by the Prime Minister of India, convened to select the next Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Due to a lack of consensus, the incumbent CBI Director is expected to receive a one-year extension. The CBI's origins trace back to the Special Police Establishment (SPE), established in 1941.
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  UPSC Angle: High-level committee to select the next CBI Director.

  Key Facts:

  • The CBI traces its roots to the Special Police Establishment (SPE), formed in 1941.
  • Officially established in 1963 on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee.
  • The appointment of CBI director is done by central government on the recommendation of a three-member committee headed by the prime minister.
  • The committee comprises of the Prime Minister, the leader of opposition, and the Chief Justice of India.
  • CBI functions under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions (PPGP) for investigation under the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988.
  • The CBI also acts as the national agency for Interpol.
• 2025-05-06 [Polity & Governance] — CBI Director Praveen Sood Expected to Receive Extension
  CBI Director Praveen Sood is likely to get a one-year extension. The office of CBI is headed by a director who has a security of tenure, meaning that once appointed, he cannot be removed from office until a 2-year tenure given under the CVC act of 2003.
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  UPSC Angle: CBI director's tenure and security of office are important.

  Key Facts:

  • CBI Director: Praveen Sood
  • Likely extension: One year
  • CVC Act: 2003
  • Director's tenure: 2 years (under CVC Act)
• 2025-04-03 [Polity & Governance] — Swaminathan S. Iyer Appointed as Whole-Time Member of IRDAI
  Swaminathan S. Iyer has been appointed as a whole-time member (life) of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) for a period of five years or until he turns 62, whichever is earlier. Iyer's experience in legal, regulatory affairs, and insurance will bring expertise to the regulatory body.
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  UPSC Angle: Swaminathan S. Iyer appointed as whole-time member of IRDAI.

  Key Facts:

  • Swaminathan S. Iyer
  • Whole-time member (life) of IRDAI
  • Five-year term or until age 62
• 2025-03-04 [Polity & Governance] — New CGDA Appointed
  Dr Mayank Sharma assumed the office of Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) on March 1, 2025. Dr. Sharma is a 1989-batch officer of the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) and has served in various capacities within the Government of India, including the Defence Accounts Department.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • New CGDA: Dr Mayank Sharma
  • Date of Appointment: March 1, 2025
  • Service: Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS)
  • Batch: 1989

Judicial Personnel Administration and Appointment Frameworks

Focus: Supreme Court rulings and legal debates concerning the recruitment, seniority determination, and transfer procedures for judges in both the Higher and Lower Judiciary.

UPSC Value: Understanding the evolving mechanisms of judicial appointments and administrative independence is crucial for the GS-2 syllabus on the Judiciary and Separation of Powers.

6 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-19 [Polity & Governance] — SC Panel to Guide Judges on Sensitivity & Compassion
  A Supreme Court panel will be formed to guide judges on sensitivity and compassion. This relates to the structure, organization, and functioning of the Judiciary.
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  UPSC Angle: SC Panel to Guide Judges on Sensitivity & Compassion.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court panel to guide judges on sensitivity and compassion.
• 2026-02-19 [Polity & Governance] — Private Member's Bill Seeks Diversity in Judiciary
  A private member's Bill has been introduced in Parliament seeking constitutional amendments to promote diversity in judicial appointments and establish regional benches of the Supreme Court. The bill seeks to constitutionally mandate due representation for SCs, STs, OBCs, women, and religious minorities in proportion to their population. The bill touches upon the constitutional values of judicial independence, substantive equality, and social justice.
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  UPSC Angle: Bill seeks diversity in judiciary and regional SC benches.

  Key Facts:

  • Seeks to mandate representation for SCs, STs, OBCs, women, and religious minorities
  • Addresses Articles 124, 217, and 130 of the Constitution
  • Representation of women remains below 15%, and religious minorities below 5%
  • Rajya Sabha MP P. Wilson introduced the Constitution (Amendment) Bill, 2026.
  • The bill seeks to mandate social diversity in the higher judiciary.
  • The bill proposes establishing regional benches of the Supreme Court.
  • Between 2018 and 2024, approximately 78% of judges appointed to High Courts belonged to upper castes.
  • Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes accounted for only about 5% each.
  • As of August 2024, women constitute only 14% of High Court judges.
  • As of January 2026, the Supreme Court has over 90,000 pending cases.
  • Article 124 governs the appointment of Supreme Court judges.
  • Article 217 outlines the appointment process for High Court judges.
  • Article 130 allows the Chief Justice of India, with Presidential approval, to appoint other places as seats for the Supreme Court.
• 2025-11-27 [Polity & Governance] — National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Revival Plea
  The Supreme Court is considering a plea to revive the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) and end the collegium system. The NJAC, established in 2014 but later struck down, aimed to bring more transparency and executive involvement to judicial appointments. The current Chief Justice has agreed to consider the petition, potentially revisiting the debate on judicial independence and appointment processes.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court considering plea to revive National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC).

  Key Facts:

  • The NJAC was established in 2014 via the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act.
  • The Supreme Court struck down the NJAC in the Fourth Judges Case, citing a threat to judicial independence.
  • The collegium system involves judges appointing judges, which has faced criticism for lack of transparency and diversity.
  • The NJAC aimed to include the Law Minister and two eminent persons selected by the PM, CJI, and Leader of Opposition.
  • Article 124 deals with the appointment of Supreme Court judges and Article 217 with High Court judges.
  • CJI considering reviewing NJAC (National Judicial Appointments Commission) judgment
  • Current collegium system includes CJI and four senior-most Supreme Court judges
  • Collegium system is criticized for violating natural justice, lacking checks and balances, and exhibiting nepotism and bias
  • Chief Justice of India
  • Supreme Court
  • National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC)
  • Collegium system
  • 2015
  • GS-2 (Judiciary, Constitution – Separation of Powers)
• 2025-11-19 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court lays guidelines for Higher Judicial Services seniority
  On November 19, 2025, a five-judge constitution bench laid guidelines to determine inter-se seniority within the Higher Judicial Services (HJS) across all States. The Court identified three sources of recruitment in the HJS: Regular Promotions, Direct Recruitment and promotion through the Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE).
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  UPSC Angle: SC lays guidelines for Higher Judicial Services seniority determination.

  Key Facts:

  • Guidelines issued for HJS seniority on November 19, 2025
  • Three sources of recruitment in HJS: Regular Promotions, Direct Recruitment, Limited Departmental Competitive Examination (LDCE)
• 2025-10-12 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Allows Direct Recruitment for District Judges
  The Supreme Court allowed direct recruitment for district judges.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court allowed direct recruitment for district judges.

• 2025-05-17 [Polity & Governance] — Judicial Transfers in India: Independence vs. Efficiency
  Judicial transfers in India aim to prevent local influence, promote neutrality, and strengthen administration, but concerns exist regarding executive interference and opacity in the collegium's decisions. The CJI initiates transfers based on judicial performance and administrative grounds, consulting with High Court CJs and senior SC judges. Reforms are needed to ensure transparency and protect judicial independence.
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  UPSC Angle: Judicial transfers in India: balancing independence vs. efficiency.

  Key Facts:

  • Initiation of transfer: Proposed by the CJI
  • Consultation: Mandatory with CJs of both High Courts and senior SC judges
  • Collegium Recommendation: CJI and two senior-most SC judges for judges; full 5-member collegium for CJs
  • Executive Approval: Law Ministry processes the file to PM to President
  • Notification: Department of Justice issues transfer orders via Gazette
  • Supreme Court Observer (2021) found that 59% of transfer orders had no reasons given.
  • Justice Muralidhar's midnight transfer raised concerns of retaliation for “inconvenient” judgments.

Appointments and Transfers in the Higher Judiciary

Focus: Updates regarding the appointment, elevation, and transfer of judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts.

UPSC Value: Essential for GS-2 (Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary; Appointment of judges; Collegium System).

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-09 [Polity & Governance] — Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque Appointed Chief Justice of Sikkim HC
  Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque was sworn in as the 24th Chief Justice of the High Court of Sikkim, succeeding Justice Biswanath Somadder.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Justice A. Muhamed Mustaque: Appointed 24th Chief Justice of Sikkim High Court
  • Succeeds: Justice Biswanath Somadder
• 2025-08-30 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Appointments
  The Supreme Court of India has regained its full sanctioned strength of 34 judges with the swearing-in of Justices Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi. Justice Pancholi is in line to become Chief Justice of India in 2031, retiring in May 2033.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court regains full strength of 34 judges.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court's full strength: 34 judges
  • Justices appointed: Alok Aradhe and Vipul M. Pancholi
  • Justice Pancholi's potential term as CJI: 2031
  • Retirement age of Supreme Court judges: 65 years (Article 124)
• 2025-05-28 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Collegium recommends High Court Chief Justice transfers
  The Supreme Court Collegium recommended the transfer of Chief Justices of Rajasthan, Tripura, Jharkhand, and Madras High Courts. Madras High Court Chief Justice K.R. Shriram is proposed for transfer to Rajasthan, while Rajasthan Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava is recommended to head the Madras High Court.
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  UPSC Angle: SC Collegium recommends transfer of High Court Chief Justices.

  Key Facts:

  • Madras High Court Chief Justice K.R. Shriram to Rajasthan
  • Rajasthan Chief Justice Manindra Mohan Shrivastava to head Madras High Court
• 2025-05-15 [Polity & Governance] — Justice BR Gavai Appointed as 52nd Chief Justice of India
  Justice BR Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India on May 14, 2025, by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He is the first Buddhist and the second Dalit to hold the post, after Justice KG Balakrishnan.
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  UPSC Angle: Justice BR Gavai appointed as 52nd Chief Justice of India.

  Key Facts:

  • Justice BR Gavai
  • 52nd Chief Justice of India
  • Sworn in on May 14, 2025
  • President Droupadi Murmu
  • First Buddhist CJI
  • Second Dalit CJI (after Justice KG Balakrishnan)
• 2025-04-16 [Polity & Governance] — Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai to become next CJI
  Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna recommended Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai as the next CJI to the Centre. Justice Gavai, the second senior-most Supreme Court judge, is set to become the 52nd CJI on May 14, 2025, after CJI Khanna retires on May 13, 2025. Justice Gavai's tenure will be over six months, and he is due to retire on November 23, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai to become next CJI.

  Key Facts:

  • Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai is recommended as the next CJI by CJI Sanjiv Khanna.
  • Justice Gavai is set to become the 52nd CJI on May 14, 2025.
  • CJI Khanna retires on May 13, 2025.
  • Justice Gavai was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court on May 24, 2019.
  • Justice Gavai is due to retire on November 23, 2025.

Supreme Court Administration and Accountability

Focus: Developments concerning the administrative functioning of the Supreme Court, including judicial appointments, vacancy filling, and transparency mechanisms like asset disclosure and Lokpal oversight.

UPSC Value: Essential for GS-II (Polity & Governance) to understand the structural and functional challenges of the Indian Judiciary, including the Collegium system and judicial accountability.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-31 [Polity & Governance] — Justice Surya Kant Appointed 53rd Chief Justice of India
  Justice Surya Kant has been appointed as the 53rd Chief Justice of India (CJI), succeeding Justice BR Gavai, and will assume office on November 24, 2025. His tenure as Chief Justice will continue until February 9, 2027. The appointment was made by the President under clause (2) of Article 124 of the Indian Constitution.
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  UPSC Angle: Justice Surya Kant appointed as the 53rd Chief Justice of India.

  Key Facts:

  • Justice Surya Kant: 53rd Chief Justice of India
  • Assumes office: November 24, 2025
  • Succeeding: Justice BR Gavai
  • Retirement date for Justice Gavai: November 23, 2025
  • Tenure ends: February 9, 2027
  • Appointed under Article 124(2) of the Constitution
  • Justice Surya Kant
  • 53rd Chief Justice of India
  • November 24
  • Justice Bhushan R. Gavai
  • February 9, 2027
• 2025-05-30 [Polity & Governance] — Centre Appoints Three Judges to Supreme Court, Fills All 34 Posts
  The Centre appointed three judges to the Supreme Court, filling all 34 posts. Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal confirmed the appointments. Justices N.V. Anjaria, Vijay Bishnoi and A.S. Chandurkar were sworn in by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai on Friday.
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  UPSC Angle: Three judges appointed to Supreme Court, filling all 34 posts.

  Key Facts:

  • Justices appointed: N.V. Anjaria, Vijay Bishnoi, A.S. Chandurkar
  • Confirmation by: Union Law and Justice Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal
  • Supreme Court strength: 34 judges
  • Retirement of Justice Bela M. Trivedi: June 9
• 2025-04-07 [Polity & Governance] — Judges' Asset Disclosure
  Out of 769 judges across 25 High Courts, only 95 judges (12.35%) have disclosed their assets, highlighting a significant lack of transparency in the higher judiciary. Kerala High Court leads with 93.18% of judges having declared assets.
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  UPSC Angle: Only 12.35% of judges disclosed assets, highlighting transparency issues.

  Key Facts:

  • Judges disclosed asset: 12.35%
  • Judges not disclosed asset: 87.65%
  • Kerala High Court: Leads with 93.18% (41/44 judges) having declared assets
• 2025-03-19 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Examines Lokpal's Powers Over Judges
  The Supreme Court is examining the extent of the Lokpal's authority over judges. Other news includes the killing of a journalist in Chhattisgarh and India's ranking in a free speech survey.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court examines Lokpal's powers over judges.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court examining Lokpal's powers over judges
  • Killing of a journalist in Chhattisgarh
  • India's ranking in a free speech survey

Governance and Judicial Oversight of Public Sector Recruitment

Focus: Developments concerning the legal standards, integrity, and administrative rules governing public service examinations and appointments in India.

UPSC Value: Critical for understanding issues related to institutional transparency, administrative law, and the role of the judiciary in ensuring fair recruitment processes (GS Paper II).

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-26 [Science & Technology] — ISRO Scientist/Engineer 'SC' Recruitment Results
  ISRO has released the results of the written test held on October 26, 2025, for the recruitment of Scientist/Engineer 'SC' in Electronics, Mechanical, and Computer Science disciplines. The results are available in PDF format on the ISRO website.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Written test date: October 26, 2025
  • Posts: Scientist/Engineer 'SC'
  • Disciplines: Electronics, Mechanical, and Computer Science
  • Results available on ISRO website in PDF format
• 2025-09-02 [Polity & Governance] — Rajasthan HC Scraps SI Recruitment Exam Due to Paper Leak
  The Rajasthan High Court scrapped the SI Recruitment-2021 exam due to a paper leak scam, granting bail to 23 accused. Following this, RPSC member Dr. Manju Sharma resigned, citing concerns for transparency and integrity in public life.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Exam scrapped: SI Recruitment-2021
  • Reason: Paper leak scam
  • Accused granted bail: 23
  • RPSC member resigned: Dr. Manju Sharma
• 2025-07-10 [Polity & Governance] — Draft Recruitment Rules for Director Posts
  The Department of Health and Family Welfare has invited stakeholders to comment on Draft Recruitment Rules for the post of Director at RGSSH, DSCI, CNBC, IHBAS, JSSH & MAIDS, which are autonomous institutes under GNCDT.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Draft Recruitment Rules for the post of Director at RGSSH, DSCI, CNBC, IHBAS, JSSH & MAIDS are available for comment.
• 2025-04-22 [Polity & Governance] — Chhattisgarh HC Rejects Plea on Psychologist Recruitment
  The Chhattisgarh High Court rejected a plea by clinical psychologists regarding recruitment qualifications, stating that the petitioners failed to establish any arbitrariness or violation of statutory provisions. The case involved a recruitment advertisement by the Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission dated April 22, 2025, for various posts, including clinical psychologists.
  More details

  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Court: Chhattisgarh High Court
  • Petitioners: Clinical psychologists
  • Issue: Recruitment qualifications for clinical psychologists
  • Advertisement Date: April 22, 2025
  • Commission: Chhattisgarh Public Service Commission
  • Ruling: Petitioners failed to establish any arbitrariness, illegality, repugnancy, or violation of statutory or constitutional provisions

Structural Regulations and Judicial Oversight of IPS Tenure

Focus: Items discussing specific policy mandates, Supreme Court rulings, and legal disputes regarding the tenure, deputation, and appointment protocols of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers.

UPSC Value: Essential for understanding the friction between executive discretion and judicial oversight in police administration, specifically regarding the Prakash Singh judgment compliance and CAPF cadre management.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-06 [Polity & Governance] — SC Flags Non-Compliance in DGP Appointments
  The Supreme Court has expressed concern over States not complying with directives regarding DGP appointments. The DGP must be selected from the three senior-most officers empanelled by the UPSC and must have a minimum fixed tenure of two years. The objective is to ensure the office of DGP remains free from political or external pressures.
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  UPSC Angle: SC directives on DGP appointments: UPSC empanelment required.

  Key Facts:

  • The DGP must be selected from the three senior-most officers empanelled by the UPSC
  • The DGP must have a minimum fixed tenure of two years
  • The concept of “Acting DGP” was rejected by the Court
• 2026-02-01 [Polity & Governance] — Centre mandates two-year deputation for IPS officers as IG
  The central government has made a two-year deputation mandatory for IPS officers for appointment as Inspector General (IG).
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  UPSC Angle: Centre mandates two-year deputation for IPS officers as IG.

  Key Facts:

  • Two-year deputation mandatory for IPS officers for appointment as IG
• 2026-01-21 [Polity & Governance] — CAPF Officers Seek SC Intervention
  Retired Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) officers have filed a contempt petition in the Supreme Court, alleging non-compliance with the Court's 2025 order to progressively reduce IPS deputation in CAPFs. The Supreme Court's 2025 ruling in Sanjay Prakash & Others vs Union of India mandated that Group A officers of CAPFs be treated as “Organised Services” and that IPS deputation to Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) posts be progressively reduced within two years.
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  UPSC Angle: CAPF officers seek SC intervention on IPS deputation reduction.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court's 2025 order directed progressive reduction of IPS deputation in CAPF
  • Case: Sanjay Prakash & Others vs Union of India, 2025
  • Group A officers of CAPFs are to be treated as “Organised Services” for all purposes
  • Deputation of IPS officers to Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) posts should be progressively reduced within two years
  • Contempt petition filed by retired CAPF officers
  • Alleging failure to implement 2025 order on IPS deputation
  • Sanjay Prakash & Others vs Union of India, 2025
  • Group A officers of CAPFs to be treated as “Organised Services”
  • IPS deputation to SAG posts to be progressively reduced within two years

State-Level Administrative and Police Personnel Management

Focus: Official appointments, transfers, and promotions of civil service (IAS/WBCS), police (IPS), and administrative staff within Indian state government frameworks.

UPSC Value: Relevant for understanding the functioning of state machinery and the periodic reshuffling of executive and administrative personnel in governance.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-31 [Polity & Governance] — West Bengal - Personnel & Administrative Reforms Department - Transfer and Promotions
  The Personnel & Administrative Reforms Department, Government of West Bengal, issued several notifications on December 31, 2025, including transfer and promotion orders for government employees.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Promotion of 2 (Two) Grade I Typist.
  • Transfer of 06 (Six) Section Officers.
  • Promotion of 10(Ten) Head Assistants in the post of Section Officer and equivalent posts.
  • Transfer of 02(Two) Head Assistants.
• 2025-12-11 [Polity & Governance] — Appointment of IAS and WBCS(Exe) Officers in West Bengal
  The Government of West Bengal has appointed IAS and WBCS(Exe) Officers to various positions. These appointments include Joint Chief Electoral Officer, Special Secretary, and Commissioner of Howrah Municipal Corporation.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Appointment of 02 IAS Officers as Joint Chief Electoral Officer, West Bengal
  • Appointment of 01 WBCS(Exe) Officer as Special Secretary (Level-24)
  • Posting of Sri Prasenjit Chakraborty, WBCS(Exe) Officer as Commissioner, Howrah Municipal Corporation
  • Posting of Sri Arindam Biswas, WBCS(Exe)
• 2025-05-02 [Polity & Governance] — Deven Bharti Appointed Mumbai Police Commissioner
  Senior IPS Officer Deven Bharti, a 1994-batch officer, was appointed as the new Commissioner of Police for Mumbai on April 30, 2025. He will take charge from Vivek Phansalkar, who is retiring after 35 years of service.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Deven Bharti appointed Mumbai Police Commissioner
  • 1994-batch IPS officer
  • Appointed on April 30, 2025
  • Replaces Vivek Phansalkar

Administrative and Disciplinary Functions of the Chief Justice

Focus: News highlighting the administrative role of the CJI, including case management reforms, disciplinary inquiries, and official privileges.

UPSC Value: Illustrates the administrative powers of the CJI (Master of the Roster, internal discipline) distinct from their judicial role.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-30 [Polity & Governance] — Chief Justice of India introduces reforms to expedite court proceedings
  The Chief Justice of India introduced reforms aimed at expediting court proceedings and improving case management. The reforms include hearing urgent cases within two days of filing and encouraging junior lawyers to present cases.
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  UPSC Angle: Chief Justice of India introduces reforms to expedite court proceedings.

  Key Facts:

  • Chief Justice of India
  • Reforms to expedite court proceedings
  • Case management improvements
• 2025-08-02 [Polity & Governance] — Former CJI D.Y. Chandrachud vacates official residence
  Former Chief Justice of India D.Y. Chandrachud has vacated his official residence in New Delhi following a controversy over his extended stay. Justice Chandrachud superannuated from the office on November 8, 2024 and was the 50th Chief Justice of India.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • D.Y. Chandrachud: Former Chief Justice of India
  • Superannuation date: November 8, 2024
  • Position: 50th Chief Justice of India
  • Location of residence: 5, Krishna Menon Marg, New Delhi
• 2025-05-09 [Polity & Governance] — Report on Delhi High Court Judge Sent to President and PM
  Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna has forwarded the report of an in-house committee that investigated allegations against a Delhi High Court judge to the President and the Prime Minister. The forwarding of the report was done in line with judicial precedents related to inquiries against judges.
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  UPSC Angle: Report on Delhi HC judge sent to President and PM.

  Key Facts:

  • Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna forwarded the report.
  • Report concerned allegations against a Delhi High Court judge.
  • Report was sent to the President and the Prime Minister.

Governance and Administrative Standards in Indian Higher Education

Focus: Items focusing on judicial rulings, constitutional roles, and regulatory directives that shape the administration, recruitment, and professional standards of higher education institutions.

UPSC Value: Relevant for GS Paper II (Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies) and issues relating to the management of the Social Sector/Education.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-29 [Schemes & Programs] — National Mission for Mentoring: UGC Calls for Faculty Nominations
  The University Grants Commission (UGC) has called on all higher educational institutions (HEIs) across India to nominate teaching faculty under the National Mission for Mentoring (NMM). This initiative, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, provides platforms for professionals and experts to share knowledge and skills with teachers, helping them become more effective.
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  UPSC Angle: UGC calls for faculty nominations under National Mission for Mentoring.

  Key Facts:

  • Initiative: National Mission for Mentoring (NMM)
  • Implementing body: University Grants Commission (UGC)
  • Objective: Nominate teaching faculty for mentoring
  • Alignment: National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
  • Launched: 29th July 2022 in selected 30 Central Schools
  • Nodal agency: National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE)
• 2025-11-24 [Polity & Governance] — Himachal Pradesh High Court Rules on Assistant Professor Eligibility
  The Himachal Pradesh High Court ruled on November 24, 2025, that a university must reconsider the application of Smt. Sharma for an assistant professor position, granting her marks for her M.Sc. in Botany. The court held that the university acted arbitrarily by applying inconsistent standards to the same academic qualification at different stages of the recruitment process.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Court: Himachal Pradesh High Court
  • Date of Ruling: November 24, 2025
  • Case: Smt. Sharma's application for Assistant Professor
  • Issue: Denial of marks for M.Sc. in Botany
  • University's action: Inconsistent application of standards
  • Court's Decision: University must reconsider application
• 2025-08-15 [Polity & Governance] — Governors' Role in State Universities
  The Supreme Court of India has repeatedly censured Governors for overstepping their constitutional authority, especially in State-run universities. Governors continue to exercise influence over legislation, leading to political tensions and raising questions about university autonomy.
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  UPSC Angle: SC censures Governors overstepping authority in state universities.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court of India
  • Governors' authority
  • State-run universities
  • University autonomy
  • Governor Ravi referred the Kalaignar University Bill to the President
  • Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar directed universities to observe a 'Partition horrors day' on August 14, 2025

Senior Central Government Appointments

Focus: Official appointments of senior bureaucrats to Secretary and Joint Secretary level posts in Central Ministries and Commissions.

UPSC Value: Tracks administrative leadership changes in key government departments (UPSC, Telecom, Mines) which impact policy implementation.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-11-23 [Polity & Governance] — New Telecom Secretary Appointed
  Amit Agarwal has been appointed as the new Telecom Secretary.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Amit Agarwal is the new Telecom Secretary
• 2025-09-07 [Polity & Governance] — New Mines Secretary
  IAS officer Piyush Goyal assumed charge as the new Mines Secretary on September 4, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Piyush Goyal is the new Mines Secretary.
  • He assumed charge on September 4, 2025.
• 2025-03-24 [Polity & Governance] — Anuj Kumar Singh Appointed as Joint Secretary in UPSC
  Anuj Kumar Singh, from the Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE), has been appointed as Joint Secretary in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), Delhi for five years.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Anuj Kumar Singh appointed as Joint Secretary (Director level) in UPSC
  • Officer of the Indian Railway Service of Electrical Engineers (IRSEE) from the 2009 batch
  • Appointment is for five years

Structural Governance and Reform Debates in the Indian Higher Judiciary

Focus: These items focus on the evolving mechanisms of judicial appointments, the internal hierarchy between Supreme Court and High Court Collegiums, and the broader institutional push for accountability and transparency.

UPSC Value: Analyzing the friction between the Collegium system and proposed reforms like the NJAC is essential for understanding the separation of powers and judicial independence under GS Paper II.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-08-16 [Polity & Governance] — SC Collegium Autonomy
  Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai clarified that the Supreme Court Collegium cannot dictate names to High Court Collegiums for judicial appointments, emphasizing the autonomy of High Court Collegiums.
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  UPSC Angle: SC Collegium cannot dictate names to High Court Collegiums.

  Key Facts:

  • Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai
  • Supreme Court Collegium
  • High Court Collegiums
• 2025-03-25 [Polity & Governance] — Collegium Judge Transfer
  The Collegium has cleared a judge's transfer, and Vice President Dhankhar held a meeting with the Leader of the House and the Leader of the Opposition to discuss judicial accountability. There has been discussion regarding potentially revisiting the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) to enhance judicial accountability.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Collegium: Cleared a judge's transfer.
  • Jagdeep Dhankhar: Held meeting on judicial accountability.
  • Discussion: Potential reintroduction of NJAC.
• 2025-03-23 [Polity & Governance] — Former CJI NV Ramana calls for judicial reforms
  Former Chief Justice of India NV Ramana addressed a conference, stating that Indian judicial institutions need reforms to increase citizens' trust. He highlighted concerns including delays, accessibility, infrastructure, vacancies, transparency and an ill-equipped criminal justice system.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Former CJI: NV Ramana

High Judicial Appointments and Succession

Focus: Official appointments, transfers, and successions of judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts.

UPSC Value: Tracks the administrative evolution and leadership changes within the higher judiciary.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-05-22 [Polity & Governance] — Justice K. Somashekar Appointed Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
  President of India appointed Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, a Judge of Karnataka High Court, as the Chief Justice of Manipur High Court on May 20, 2025.
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  UPSC Angle: Justice K. Somashekar appointed Chief Justice of Manipur High Court.

  Key Facts:

  • Appointed: Justice Kempaiah Somashekar
  • Position: Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
  • Previous position: Judge of Karnataka High Court
  • Date of Appointment: May 20, 2025
• 2025-05-05 [Polity & Governance] — CJI Sanjiv Khanna Hands Waqf Case to Successor
  Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, with four working days left before retirement on May 13, transferred the Waqf law case to his successor, Justice B.R. Gavai. CJI Khanna stated he did not want to pass any interim orders and wanted Justice Gavai to have time to review the case records.
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  UPSC Angle: CJI Khanna transfers Waqf law case to successor Justice Gavai.

  Key Facts:

  • Chief Justice of India: Sanjiv Khanna
  • Successor: Justice B.R. Gavai
  • Case: Litigation challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025
  • Date: May 5, 2025
  • Retirement date of CJI Khanna: May 13
• 2025-03-10 [Polity & Governance] — Justice Joymalya Bagchi Appointed to Supreme Court of India
  Justice Joymalya Bagchi, a Calcutta High Court judge, has been appointed to the Supreme Court of India. Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal announced the appointment, which was made by the President of India after consulting with the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
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  UPSC Angle: Justice Joymalya Bagchi appointed to the Supreme Court of India.

  Key Facts:

  • Name: Justice Joymalya Bagchi
  • Current position: Calcutta High Court judge
  • Appointed to: Supreme Court of India
  • Appointment made by: President of India
  • Consultation with: Chief Justice of India (CJI)
  • Announcement by: Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal