State Public Service Commission (State PSC) examinations are premier administrative recruitment tests conducted by individual states in India to select candidates for prestigious provincial civil services, including Deputy Collectors, Superintendents of Police, and block development officers. The examination follows a rigorous three-stage architecture mirroring national civil service standards: a screening Preliminary Examination consisting of objective papers, a comprehensive Main Examination featuring written descriptive and essay components, and a final Personality Test. Understanding the multi-tiered blueprint, sectional weightages, and marking schemes is essential for formulating an effective, high-scoring preparation strategy.
1. Which part of the Indian Constitution deals with the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) Part XIV
Explanation:
Part XIV of the Indian Constitution contains provisions related to Services under the Union and the States, which includes the Public Service Commissions.
2. Which Articles of the Indian Constitution specifically deal with Public Service Commissions for the Union and for the States?
Correct Answer: b) Articles 315 to 323
Explanation:
Articles 315 to 323 in Part XIV of the Constitution detail the composition, appointment, and removal of members along with the powers and functions of the Public Service Commissions.
3. Who appoints the Chairman and other members of a State Public Service Commission (SPSC)?
Correct Answer: c) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
According to Article 316, the Chairman and other members of a State Public Service Commission are appointed by the Governor of the State.
4. Who has the authority to remove the Chairman or a member of a State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) The President of India
Explanation:
Although appointed by the Governor, the Chairman or members of the SPSC can only be removed by the President of India on specific grounds.
5. What is the term of office for a member of the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) 6 years or until the age of 62 years
Explanation:
A member of an SPSC holds office for a term of 6 years or until they attain the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.
6. Which Constitutional Amendment Act raised the retirement age of SPSC members from 60 to 62 years?
Correct Answer: a) 41st Amendment Act, 1976
Explanation:
The 41st Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976 raised the retirement age for members of the State Public Service Commissions and Joint Public Service Commissions from 60 to 62 years.
7. To whom does a member of the State Public Service Commission submit their resignation?
Correct Answer: d) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
A member of the State Public Service Commission can resign from their office at any time by addressing their resignation to the Governor of the State.
8. What is the minimum qualification prescribed by the Constitution for the appointment of a member to the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) No specific qualification is prescribed for all members
Explanation:
The Constitution does not prescribe general qualifications for the commission's membership, except that one-half of the members should have held office for at least 10 years either under the Government of India or a State Government.
9. What fraction of the members of the SPSC must have held government office for at least 10 years?
Correct Answer: b) One-half
Explanation:
According to the Constitution, as nearly as may be, one-half of the members of the SPSC should be persons who have held office for at least 10 years under the Government of India or of a State.
10. Who determines the conditions of service of the Chairman and members of the SPSC?
Correct Answer: c) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
Under Article 318, the Governor of the State is empowered to determine the number of members of the Commission and their conditions of service.
11. Can the conditions of service of the Chairman or a member of the SPSC be varied to their disadvantage after their appointment?
Correct Answer: c) No, they cannot be varied to their disadvantage
Explanation:
To ensure the independence of the Commission, the Constitution specifies that the conditions of service of the Chairman or a member cannot be varied to their disadvantage after their appointment.
12. Who has the power to suspend the Chairman or a member of the SPSC pending an inquiry by the Supreme Court?
Correct Answer: b) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
While the President removes the member, the Governor has the power to suspend the Chairman or a member of the SPSC pending the final order of the President based on the Supreme Court's report.
13. Which of the following is NOT a ground for the direct removal of an SPSC member by the President without an SC inquiry?
Correct Answer: c) Proved misbehaviour
Explanation:
For removal on the ground of 'proved misbehaviour', the President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for inquiry. The other three grounds allow the President to remove the member directly.
14. What constitutes 'misbehaviour' for an SPSC member according to the Constitution?
Correct Answer: b) Being interested in any contract made on behalf of the Government of India or a State Government
Explanation:
A member is deemed guilty of misbehaviour if they become interested in any government contract or agreement, or participate in any way in the profit of such contract.
15. Where are the expenses of the State Public Service Commission charged?
Correct Answer: c) Consolidated Fund of the State
Explanation:
The expenses of the SPSC, including salaries, allowances, and pensions of the members and staff, are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State.
16. Are the expenses of the State Public Service Commission subject to the vote of the State Legislature?
Correct Answer: b) No, they are non-votable
Explanation:
Since the expenses are 'charged' upon the Consolidated Fund of the State, they are non-votable by the State Legislature, ensuring the Commission's independence.
17. Can a person who has held office as a member of an SPSC be reappointed to the same office for a second term?
Correct Answer: c) No, they are ineligible for reappointment to the same office
Explanation:
Article 316 states that a person who holds office as a member of a Public Service Commission shall be ineligible for reappointment to that specific office.
18. After retiring, what position is the Chairman of a State Public Service Commission eligible for?
Correct Answer: b) Chairman or Member of UPSC, or Chairman of any other SPSC
Explanation:
The Chairman of an SPSC is eligible for appointment as the Chairman or a member of the UPSC, or as the Chairman of another SPSC, but not for any other employment under the Government.
19. Is a retiring member (not Chairman) of the SPSC eligible for appointment as the Chairman of the same SPSC?
Correct Answer: a) Yes
Explanation:
A member of an SPSC is eligible for appointment as the Chairman of that SPSC, Chairman of another SPSC, or Chairman/Member of the UPSC.
20. Which Article of the Constitution details the functions of the Public Service Commissions?
Correct Answer: c) Article 320
Explanation:
Article 320 of the Constitution lays down the functions of both the Union and the State Public Service Commissions.
21. What is the primary function of the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: b) To conduct examinations for appointments to the services of the State
Explanation:
The primary duty of the SPSC, as per Article 320, is to conduct examinations for appointments to the services of the state.
22. On which of the following matters is the SPSC NOT consulted?
Correct Answer: c) Making reservations of appointments for backward classes
Explanation:
Under Article 320(4), the SPSC is not required to be consulted regarding the manner in which reservations are to be made for backward classes.
23. Which authority can extend the functions of the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: d) The State Legislature
Explanation:
Article 321 states that an act made by the State Legislature may provide for the exercise of additional functions by the SPSC in respect of state services.
24. To whom does the State Public Service Commission present its annual report of performance?
Correct Answer: b) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
Under Article 323, it is the duty of the SPSC to present annually to the Governor of the State a report as to the work done by the Commission.
25. What does the Governor do with the annual report received from the SPSC?
Correct Answer: c) Causes it to be laid before the State Legislature
Explanation:
The Governor causes a copy of the report to be laid before the State Legislature, along with a memorandum explaining the cases where the Commission's advice was not accepted.
26. Is the advice tendered by the State Public Service Commission binding on the State Government?
Correct Answer: b) No, it is only advisory in nature
Explanation:
The recommendations of the SPSC are advisory in nature and not binding on the state government, though the government must justify any non-acceptance in the legislature.
27. Can the Governor make regulations excluding certain matters from the purview of the SPSC?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, but the regulations must be laid before the State Legislature for at least 14 days
Explanation:
The Governor can exclude posts/services from SPSC purview, but such regulations must be laid before each House of the State Legislature for not less than 14 days for approval or modification.
28. Which of the following entities is a statutory body and NOT a constitutional body?
Correct Answer: c) Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC)
Explanation:
UPSC and SPSC are created directly by the Constitution, whereas a JSPSC is created by an Act of Parliament upon the request of the concerned state legislatures, making it a statutory body.
29. Who creates a Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC) for two or more states?
Correct Answer: b) The Parliament of India
Explanation:
The Constitution provides that Parliament may by law provide for the appointment of a JSPSC if the legislatures of the concerned states pass resolutions to that effect.
30. Who appoints the Chairman and members of a Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC)?
Correct Answer: a) The President of India
Explanation:
Unlike the SPSC where the Governor appoints the members, the Chairman and members of a JSPSC are appointed by the President of India.
31. What is the term of office for a member of a Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC)?
Correct Answer: b) 6 years or 62 years of age
Explanation:
Like the SPSC, members of a JSPSC hold office for a term of 6 years or until they attain the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.
32. To whom does a member of a Joint State Public Service Commission submit their resignation?
Correct Answer: c) The President of India
Explanation:
Members of a JSPSC are appointed by the President, and they submit their resignation directly to the President of India.
33. Who can remove a member of a Joint State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) The President of India
Explanation:
The power to remove a member of the JSPSC rests with the President of India, on the same grounds as the UPSC or SPSC.
34. To whom does the Joint State Public Service Commission (JSPSC) present its annual report?
Correct Answer: c) The Governors of each of the respective states
Explanation:
A JSPSC presents its annual performance report to each of the Governors of the states that it serves. Each Governor then places it before their respective state legislature.
35. When was the Joint Public Service Commission for Punjab and Haryana created?
Correct Answer: c) 1966
Explanation:
A JSPSC was created for the states of Punjab and Haryana for a short period following the bifurcation of Punjab by the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966.
36. Can the UPSC assist a state in framing and operating schemes of joint recruitment?
Correct Answer: a) Yes, if requested by two or more states
Explanation:
Under Article 320, the UPSC must assist states, if requested by two or more states, in framing and operating schemes of joint recruitment for any services requiring special qualifications.
37. Can the UPSC serve the needs of a single state?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, on the request of the Governor and with the approval of the President
Explanation:
Article 315(4) allows the UPSC to serve all or any of the needs of a state on the request of the State Governor, with the approval of the President of India.
38. Under which act were Provincial Public Service Commissions first established in British India?
Correct Answer: c) Government of India Act, 1935
Explanation:
While a Central PSC was established in 1926, the Government of India Act of 1935 provided for the establishment of not only a Federal PSC but also a Provincial PSC and Joint PSCs.
39. Who decides the number of members of the SPSC?
Correct Answer: c) The Governor of the State
Explanation:
The Constitution has not specified the strength of the Commission. It has left the matter to the discretion of the Governor.
40. If the office of the SPSC Chairman falls vacant, who appoints an acting Chairman?
Correct Answer: b) The Governor
Explanation:
The Governor can appoint one of the members of the SPSC as an acting Chairman if the office falls vacant or the Chairman is unable to perform their duties.
41. When does the acting Chairman of the SPSC cease to function in that capacity?
Correct Answer: b) When a new Chairman is appointed and enters upon duties
Explanation:
The acting Chairman functions until a person is appointed to the regular post of Chairman and enters upon the duties, or until the regular Chairman resumes duty.
42. In disciplinary matters against state civil servants, an SPSC is typically consulted on which of the following?
Correct Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation:
The SPSC is consulted on all disciplinary matters affecting a person serving under the state government, including censure, withholding increments, demotion, recovery of loss, and dismissal.
43. Does the SPSC have a role in the classification of services and determination of pay scales?
Correct Answer: b) No, this is done by the State Government/Pay Commissions
Explanation:
The SPSC is not concerned with the classification of services, pay and service conditions, cadre management, or training. These are handled by the Department of Personnel or General Administration.
44. If there is a conflict of advice between the State Vigilance Commission (SVC) and the SPSC on a disciplinary matter, whose advice generally holds more weight?
Correct Answer: b) SPSC, as it is an independent constitutional body
Explanation:
The SPSC, being a constitutional body, has an edge over the SVC, which is created by an executive resolution or statute. The government generally prioritizes SPSC advice.
45. Does the SPSC handle the recruitment for subordinate services (like clerical staff)?
Correct Answer: b) Generally no, this is often handled by Subordinate Services Selection Boards (SSSC)
Explanation:
While the SPSC handles Group A and Group B (gazetted) services, most states have established separate Subordinate Services Selection Boards to recruit for lower-tier clerical or Group C/D posts.
46. Is the SPSC consulted while making appointments to any tribunal or commission in the state?
Correct Answer: b) No, it is exempt from its purview
Explanation:
The state government can exclude certain posts from the SPSC's purview. Appointments to tribunals, commissions, and high-level diplomatic or diplomatic-equivalent posts are generally excluded.
47. What is the primary difference in the removal process of a High Court Judge and an SPSC Member?
Correct Answer: b) HC Judge is removed via parliamentary process, SPSC member by Presidential order after SC inquiry
Explanation:
A High Court Judge requires a special majority resolution by both houses of Parliament. An SPSC member is removed by the President directly upon a binding report from the Supreme Court.
48. Is the Supreme Court's advice regarding the removal of an SPSC member binding on the President?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, the advice is binding
Explanation:
Under Article 317, if the Supreme Court, after inquiry, reports that the member ought to be removed, the President must remove them. The advice is binding.
49. Which entity audits the accounts of the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: c) The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG)
Explanation:
As the expenses are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State, the auditing of SPSC accounts falls under the jurisdiction of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.
50. Article 319 outlines the prohibition of holding office by members of Commission upon ceasing to be such members. What is its main objective?
Correct Answer: b) To ensure the impartiality and independence of the members
Explanation:
By prohibiting further employment under the government (with exceptions like UPSC), Article 319 ensures that members do not act in a biased manner to secure future favors from the executive.
51. Which of the following is true about a member of SPSC taking up the post of a Governor after retirement?
Correct Answer: b) It is allowed as the post of Governor is a constitutional office, not 'employment under the government'
Explanation:
The Supreme Court has held that the office of the Governor is a high constitutional office and does not qualify as 'employment under the Government of India/State' in the restrictive sense of Article 319.
52. Which article of the Constitution provides for the transitional provisions for Public Service Commissions when the Constitution commenced?
Correct Answer: b) Article 378
Explanation:
Article 378 details the transitional provisions for Public Service Commissions, specifying how members of provincial commissions became members of the corresponding SPSCs at the commencement of the Constitution.
53. How is a vacancy resulting from the end of the term of an SPSC member generally filled?
Correct Answer: b) By fresh appointment by the Governor
Explanation:
Since re-appointment to the same post is prohibited, the Governor makes a fresh appointment to fill the vacancy created by the retiring member.
54. If a member of an SPSC is appointed as the Chairman of the same SPSC, their total tenure in the commission (Member + Chairman) cannot exceed:
Correct Answer: b) 6 years
Explanation:
A member can be appointed as Chairman, but their total combined term as member and Chairman cannot exceed 6 years (or the age of 62, whichever is earlier).
55. In the case of a Joint Public Service Commission (JSPSC), who has the power to determine the number of members and their conditions of service?
Correct Answer: c) The President
Explanation:
Under Article 318, for a JSPSC, it is the President who determines the number of members of the Commission and their conditions of service.
56. Can the SPSC advise the state government on claims for the award of a pension in respect of injuries sustained by a person while serving the government?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, it is one of their functions under Article 320
Explanation:
Article 320(3)(e) states that the SPSC shall be consulted on any claim for the award of a pension in respect of injuries sustained by a person while serving under the state in a civil capacity.
57. Is the SPSC consulted on the reimbursement of legal expenses incurred by a civil servant defending themselves in court for official acts?
Correct Answer: a) Yes
Explanation:
Article 320(3)(d) provides that the SPSC shall be consulted on any claim by or in respect of a person who is serving/has served the state, that any costs incurred by them in defending legal proceedings instituted against them regarding their official duty should be paid out of the state consolidated fund.
58. Which of the following bodies is considered the 'watchdog of the merit system' in a state?
Correct Answer: c) The State Public Service Commission
Explanation:
The SPSC acts as the watchdog of the merit system in the state by ensuring fair and objective recruitment to state civil services.
59. Does the SPSC possess the power to mandate the state government to recruit the candidates it recommends?
Correct Answer: b) No, their recommendation is advisory
Explanation:
The function of the SPSC is advisory. It recommends candidates based on merit, but the final authority to make appointments rests with the state government.
60. What is the consequence if the state government fails to consult the SPSC in cases where it is constitutionally mandated?
Correct Answer: c) The Supreme Court held that non-consultation does not invalidate the government's action
Explanation:
The Supreme Court has ruled that the provision of consultation is directory, not mandatory. Hence, non-consultation does not render the government's decision invalid in a court of law, though it is irregular.
61. Who represents the State Public Service Commission in the state legislature to defend its report?
Correct Answer: c) No one; the government defends its own actions on the report
Explanation:
The SPSC is an independent body and does not sit in the legislature. The state government presents the report and explains why it did or did not accept the Commission's advice.
62. If an SPSC member is found guilty of misbehaviour by the Supreme Court, can the President choose to retain them?
Correct Answer: b) No, the President is bound to remove the member
Explanation:
If the Supreme Court upholds the cause of removal for misbehaviour and advises so, its advice is binding on the President.
63. Can the jurisdiction of the SPSC be extended to local bodies or public corporations in the state?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, by an act made by the State Legislature
Explanation:
Under Article 321, the State Legislature can enact a law to extend the functions of the SPSC to any local authority, corporate body, or public institution constituted by law.
64. Which of the following actions requires a 'memorandum explaining the reasons' to be tabled in the state legislature?
Correct Answer: c) Non-acceptance of the advice of the SPSC by the government
Explanation:
When the government does not accept the advice of the SPSC, it must submit a memorandum to the legislature explaining the reasons for such non-acceptance.
65. Are SPSC members required to take an oath of office?
Correct Answer: d) The Constitution does not explicitly provide an oath format for SPSC members in the Third Schedule
Explanation:
Unlike Ministers, Judges, and the CAG, there is no specific oath for UPSC/SPSC members listed in the Third Schedule of the Constitution, though they may sign declarations of office.
66. In which city is the headquarters of the Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) located?
Correct Answer: c) Prayagraj (Allahabad)
Explanation:
The UPPSC, one of the oldest state commissions in India, is headquartered in Prayagraj.
67. In which year was the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) established?
Correct Answer: b) 1949
Explanation:
The BPSC came into existence on 1st April 1949 after its separation from the Commission for the States of Orissa and Madhya Pradesh.
68. Under which Article can the President remove a member of an SPSC if they are found unfit by reason of infirmity of mind or body?
Correct Answer: b) Article 317
Explanation:
Article 317(3) outlines the specific conditions (insolvency, paid employment, infirmity) under which the President can directly remove a member of a Public Service Commission.
69. What is the status of the salaries of the staff of the SPSC?
Correct Answer: b) Charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State
Explanation:
Along with the members, the expenses of the commission including salaries and allowances of its staff, are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State.
70. Can an SPSC member be a member of a political party while in office?
Correct Answer: b) No, they must be strictly non-partisan to maintain the independence of the commission
Explanation:
To ensure impartiality, objectivity, and constitutional propriety, members of public service commissions are expected to remain non-partisan and generally sever active political affiliations.
71. Which body is consulted on the principles to be followed in making appointments to civil services?
Correct Answer: b) State Public Service Commission
Explanation:
Article 320(3)(b) states the SPSC shall be consulted on the principles to be followed in making appointments to civil services and posts and in making promotions and transfers.
72. If a new state is formed, how is its Public Service Commission established?
Correct Answer: c) It is established by the provisions of the State Reorganisation Act passed by Parliament
Explanation:
When a new state is formed, the Parliamentary Act enabling its creation (e.g., AP Reorganisation Act 2014) contains provisions for establishing its respective State PSC.
73. What is the main limitation on the advisory role of the SPSC regarding appointments?
Correct Answer: c) The government may make rules to exclude certain matters from their consultation
Explanation:
The proviso to Article 320(3) allows the Governor to make regulations specifying the matters in which it shall not be necessary to consult the SPSC.
74. Is the State Public Service Commission responsible for the reservation policy for SC/STs in state jobs?
Correct Answer: b) No, the government determines this independently without consulting the SPSC
Explanation:
Under Article 320(4), the SPSC is not required to be consulted on the manner of giving effect to reservations in favor of backward classes or SC/STs.
75. In the historical context, the Lee Commission (1924) was related to which of the following?
Correct Answer: b) Superior Civil Services in India
Explanation:
The Royal Commission on the Superior Civil Services in India (Lee Commission) in 1924 recommended the establishment of a Public Service Commission, leading to the Central PSC in 1926.
76. Under which Schedule of the Constitution are provisions relating to the administration of scheduled areas found, where SPSC roles might sometimes overlap in tribal sub-plans?
Correct Answer: a) Fifth and Sixth Schedules
Explanation:
The Fifth and Sixth Schedules deal with the administration of Scheduled Areas and Tribal Areas, though the SPSC's role is generally uniform across the state unless specifically exempted by Governor's notification in these areas.
77. Does the SPSC recruit officers for the High Court staff?
Correct Answer: b) No, the Chief Justice of the High Court directs recruitment
Explanation:
Under Article 229, appointments of officers and servants of a High Court are made by the Chief Justice of the Court or an officer directed by them, outside the SPSC's typical purview.
78. If a member of an SPSC acts as the Chairman during a vacancy, do they get the salary of the Chairman?
Correct Answer: a) Yes
Explanation:
Generally, an acting Chairman is entitled to the salary and allowances attached to the office of the Chairman for the period they perform those duties.
79. Can the state legislature decrease the salary of an SPSC member during a financial emergency?
Correct Answer: a) Yes, under Article 360
Explanation:
During a National Financial Emergency (Article 360), the President can issue directions to reduce the salaries and allowances of all or any class of persons serving the State, including SPSC members.
80. Can the SPSC be given the task of conducting examinations for a local municipality?
Correct Answer: a) Yes, if the State Legislature passes an act for it
Explanation:
Article 321 explicitly states that an act made by the Legislature of a State may provide for the exercise of additional functions by the SPSC regarding local authorities.
81. When consulting the SPSC on disciplinary actions, the government typically provides:
Correct Answer: b) The inquiry report and proposed penalty
Explanation:
For disciplinary matters, the government forwards the charges, the inquiry officer's report, and the proposed penalty to the SPSC for its impartial advice.
82. Who determines the 'methods of recruitment' to civil services and posts?
Correct Answer: b) The State Government in consultation with the SPSC
Explanation:
Article 320(3)(a) mandates that the SPSC shall be consulted on all matters relating to methods of recruitment to civil services and for civil posts.
83. What happens if a candidate recommended by the SPSC is denied appointment by the State Government?
Correct Answer: c) The government is not legally bound to appoint a recommended candidate
Explanation:
A recommendation from the SPSC does not create a legally enforceable right to appointment. The government retains the ultimate appointing authority.
84. Which doctrine limits the State Government's ability to arbitrarily reject SPSC recommendations?
Correct Answer: c) Articles 14 and 16 (Equality and Non-discrimination)
Explanation:
While SPSC advice is not strictly binding, the government cannot act arbitrarily or mala fide in rejecting candidates, as doing so would violate the fundamental rights of equality under Articles 14 and 16.
85. Is an SPSC member considered a 'public servant' under the Prevention of Corruption Act?
Correct Answer: a) Yes
Explanation:
Members of public service commissions hold public office and perform public duties, falling squarely under the definition of a 'public servant'.
86. Before the Indian Constitution came into force, provincial PSCs were operational under the Government of India Act 1935. In which year did the act come into effect?
Correct Answer: b) 1937
Explanation:
Although passed in 1935, the Government of India Act came into operation in 1937, which is when the provincial public service commissions were formally set up.
87. If a member of an SPSC is accused of misbehaviour, who has the power to initiate the inquiry?
Correct Answer: c) The President referring the matter to the Supreme Court
Explanation:
Under Article 317(1), the President alone has the authority to refer the matter of an SPSC member's misbehaviour to the Supreme Court for inquiry.
88. Can the SPSC conduct departmental examinations for promotions?
Correct Answer: a) Yes, it is one of their common functions
Explanation:
In addition to direct recruitment, SPSCs regularly conduct departmental examinations which serve as a basis for the promotion of civil servants to higher grades.
89. Which of the following bodies is parallel to the SPSC at the Central level?
Correct Answer: b) Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
Explanation:
The UPSC is the central equivalent of the SPSC, functioning under the same set of constitutional articles (315-323).
90. Are the members of the SPSC accountable to the State Legislature for their day-to-day decisions?
Correct Answer: b) No, they enjoy functional autonomy and are not directly accountable to the legislature
Explanation:
To ensure unbiased recruitment, the SPSC operates with functional autonomy. They do not answer directly to the legislature, though their annual report is discussed there.
91. What is the primary criteria used by SPSC for recommending candidates for direct recruitment?
Correct Answer: c) Merit assessed through competitive exams and interviews
Explanation:
The SPSC recommends candidates strictly based on merit, which is assessed objectively through competitive written examinations and personality tests (interviews).
92. Under what circumstance can a retired SPSC Chairman be appointed as a member of the UPSC?
Correct Answer: b) If they are below the age of 65
Explanation:
An SPSC Chairman retires at 62. Since the retirement age for a UPSC member is 65, they can be appointed to the UPSC provided they have not reached the age of 65.
93. Does the State Public Service Commission have the power of a civil court?
Correct Answer: b) No, it is purely an advisory/recruiting body and does not have civil court powers
Explanation:
Unlike some commissions (like Human Rights Commission), the SPSC is an administrative and advisory body and does not hold the powers of a civil court.
94. What role does the SPSC play in the appointment of the Director General of Police (DGP) of a state?
Correct Answer: b) It has no role; the UPSC is usually consulted along with the state government
Explanation:
According to the Supreme Court's Prakash Singh directives, the UPSC prepares a panel of IPS officers for the DGP post, from which the state government chooses. The SPSC is not involved.
95. Can the Governor modify the SPSC's annual report before submitting it to the state legislature?
Correct Answer: b) No, the report must be laid before the legislature as presented by the Commission
Explanation:
The Governor acts merely as a conduit to lay the original report of the SPSC before the legislature, accompanied by the government's memorandum of explanation.
96. If an SPSC member's term ends but no replacement is appointed, can they continue in office?
Correct Answer: b) No, they must vacate the office upon reaching the end of their term or age limit
Explanation:
Unlike some offices, there is no provision for an SPSC member to continue beyond their 6-year term or age of 62 until a successor takes over. They must vacate the office.
97. How are the members of a Joint State Public Service Commission apportioned among the participating states?
Correct Answer: c) As determined by the President in the order constituting it
Explanation:
The composition and terms of a JSPSC are determined by the President of India, usually based on an agreement between the participating states.
98. Which part of the SPSC examination process is designed to evaluate a candidate's mental caliber, social traits, and interest in current affairs?
Correct Answer: c) Personality Test (Interview)
Explanation:
The interview or personality test is specifically designed to assess personal qualities like mental alertness, clear and logical exposition, and social traits.
99. Can a person be appointed to the SPSC if they have never held a government job?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, provided they do not exceed 50% of the commission's strength
Explanation:
The Constitution requires that at least one-half of the members must have 10 years of government service. The other half can be from non-government backgrounds (academics, lawyers, etc.).
100. What happens if a candidate submits forged documents to the SPSC during recruitment?
Correct Answer: b) They are debarred from the commission's examinations and legal action may be taken
Explanation:
SPSCs have strict rules; submission of forged documents leads to debarment from future exams and often triggers criminal prosecution.
101. Does the SPSC have a say in the transfer of a civil servant from one district to another within the same service?
Correct Answer: b) No, this is an administrative matter handled by the state government
Explanation:
Intra-service transfers are purely administrative routine matters handled by the state government without needing consultation with the SPSC.
102. Regarding the SPSC's advisory role on 'principles of transfer', what does it actually mean?
Correct Answer: b) Transfer on deputation from one service/department to another
Explanation:
When the Constitution speaks of SPSC consultation on 'transfers', it refers to the principles of transfer/deputation of officers from one service to another, not routine geographic postings.
103. Who sets the syllabus for the examinations conducted by the State Public Service Commission?
Correct Answer: b) The State Public Service Commission itself, sometimes in consultation with the government
Explanation:
The SPSC designs the scheme and syllabus of the examination for recruitment to state services, ensuring it meets the specific needs of the state administration.
104. Why is the term of an SPSC member protected, with removal only by the President?
Correct Answer: b) To ensure they act without fear or favor from the State Executive
Explanation:
Security of tenure is a constitutional safeguard to ensure the SPSC members can perform their duties impartially, without the threat of arbitrary removal by the state government.
105. Does an SPSC Chairman have voting rights within the commission?
Correct Answer: b) Yes, they have a vote and typically a casting vote in case of a tie
Explanation:
The Chairman heads the commission and participates in its decisions, usually having a casting vote when the commission is equally divided on an issue.
106. Which committee or commission usually recommends the strengthening of the State Public Service Commissions to improve state administration?
Correct Answer: a) Administrative Reforms Commission (ARC)
Explanation:
The ARC (both first and second) has extensively analyzed public administration in India, making several recommendations to strengthen the independence and capacity of Public Service Commissions.
107. Are the members of the SPSC eligible for re-employment in any capacity under the state government after they resign before their term ends?
Correct Answer: b) No, the prohibition under Article 319 applies even if they resign
Explanation:
The bar on future government employment (with the exception of specific UPSC/SPSC posts) under Article 319 applies strictly once a person has held the office, regardless of whether they complete the term or resign.
