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Constitutional, Statutory & Non-Constitutional Bodies – UPSC Notes

⚖️ Constitutional, Statutory & Non-Constitutional Bodies

Comprehensive UPSC revision notes — covering Articles, Nature, Composition, Appointment, Removal, Tenure, Independence Safeguards, Functions & Prelims Traps for 30+ bodies.

🔵 Part 1 — Constitutional Bodies 🟢 Part 2 — Statutory Bodies 🟣 Part 3 — Extra-Constitutional Bodies ⚡ Prelims Traps Highlighted

🔵 Part 1 — Constitutional Bodies

Established directly by the Constitution of India
Election Commission of India (ECI) Article 324 Constitutional · Permanent · Independent
Article324 — Superintendence, direction and control of elections
CompositionChief Election Commissioner (CEC) + Election Commissioners (ECs). Currently: 1 CEC + 2 ECs (multi-member since 1993). Number of ECs determined by the President.
AppointmentBy the President on recommendation of a Search Committee — as per Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023. Earlier: solely President’s discretion.
Tenure6 years or age 65 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for reappointment.
Removal — CECSame as a Supreme Court judge — Presidential order after address by both Houses (special majority: absolute majority + 2/3rd present & voting). Grounds: proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
Removal — Other ECsOn recommendation of the CEC only — protects them from arbitrary executive removal.
Service ConditionsSalary charged to Consolidated Fund of India (CFI). Cannot be varied to disadvantage after appointment (Art. 324(5)). After tenure: ineligible for any govt appointment.
Key Functions
  • Superintendence, direction & control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, President & Vice President
  • Recognises political parties; allots election symbols
  • Enforces Model Code of Conduct (MCC) — advisory, not statutory
  • Advises President on disqualification of MPs; advises Governor on disqualification of MLAs
  • Determines election schedules; announces election dates
Independence Safeguards
  • CEC removable only like a SC judge — highest constitutional protection
  • Salary charged to CFI — not subject to vote in Parliament
  • Service conditions cannot be varied to disadvantage after appointment
  • No post-retirement government appointment (recently mandated)
Prelims Traps: ECI controls election to President & VP — not just Parliament/State. | MCC is NOT statutory — advisory only. | Only CEC has SC-judge level removal protection, not other ECs. | New 2023 Act changed appointment process.
⭐ UPSC Very Frequently Asked
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) Articles 315–323 Constitutional · Independent · Advisory
Article Breakdown — Part XIV
Art. 315→Establishment of UPSC and SPSCs
Art. 316→Composition — Chairman + Members
Art. 317→Removal and Suspension of Members
Art. 318→Power to make Regulations (conditions of service)
Art. 319→Post-tenure restrictions — prohibition on holding offices
Art. 320→Functions of the Commission
Art. 321→Extension of functions to State services (if requested)
Art. 322→Expenses — charged to Consolidated Fund of India
Art. 323→Annual Reports — submitted to President → Parliament
CompositionChairman + Members — number determined by President. No specific qualifications except: at least ½ members must have held Union/State Govt office for ≥10 years.
AppointmentBy President — by warrant under hand and seal.
Tenure6 years or age 65 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for reappointment to UPSC. A Member may be appointed Chairman of UPSC or SPSC.
RemovalOnly by Presidential order. Grounds: misbehaviour (proven by SC inquiry), insolvency, paid employment outside, infirmity of mind/body.
Post-Tenure BarChairman: ineligible for any Govt employment. Member: can be appointed Chairman of UPSC or SPSC — no other Govt employment.
Service ConditionsSalary charged to CFI. Conditions cannot be varied to disadvantage after appointment.
ReportAnnual report to President → laid before both Houses with a memorandum explaining cases where UPSC advice was not accepted.
Key Functions (Art. 320)
  • Recruitment to civil services/posts under Union by examination
  • Direct recruitment by interview
  • Promotion, transfer, deputation matters
  • Advice on disciplinary matters (Art. 311)
  • Advice on claims for costs by Govt servants
  • Any other matter referred by President
Advisory Nature (Not Binding)
  • UPSC’s advice is only consultative — not binding on the government
  • Govt can deviate from UPSC advice but must record reasons in writing
Prelims Traps: UPSC advice on recruitment, promotions and disciplinary matters is advisory, not binding on the government. Parliament can extend UPSC functions to state services (Art. 321).
⭐ UPSC Asked Almost Every Year
Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) Articles 148–151 Constitutional · Independent · Guardian of Public Purse
Article Breakdown
Art. 148→Establishment and independence of CAG
Art. 149→Duties and Powers of CAG
Art. 150→Form of accounts (prescribed on CAG’s advice)
Art. 151→Audit Reports — submitted to President / Governor
Governing LawCAG’s (Duties, Powers and Conditions of Service) Act, 1971
CompositionSingle — one CAG (not a multi-member body)
AppointmentBy President — by warrant under hand and seal. No qualifications specified in Constitution.
Tenure6 years or age 65 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for further office under Union or State Govt after retirement.
RemovalSame as a Supreme Court judge — by Presidential order after address by both Houses of Parliament. Grounds: proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
Service ConditionsSalary equal to a SC judge. Charged to CFI. Cannot be varied to disadvantage. No further office after retirement.
Key Functions
  • Audits accounts of the Union, States and UTs
  • Audits accounts of all bodies substantially financed by Central/State Govt
  • Audits receipts and expenditure of Union & States
  • Audits transactions of Contingency Fund & Public Account
  • Compiles and maintains accounts of State Governments (on State’s behalf)
  • Advises President on prescription of form of accounts (Art. 150)
Reports (Art. 151)
  • 3 Reports to President on Central accounts: Audit Report on Appropriation Accounts; Finance Accounts; Public Sector Undertakings
  • President lays them before both Houses of Parliament
  • Reviewed by Public Accounts Committee (PAC) and Committee on Public Undertakings
  • State reports submitted to Governor → laid before State Legislature
Important Notes
  • CAG is the head of the Indian Audit and Accounts Department
  • Called the “guardian of the public purse” and “friend, philosopher and guide of PAC”
  • CAG conducts post-audit — not pre-audit (despite title “Comptroller”)
  • CAG does NOT control expenditure of State-owned corporations — only audits
Prelims Traps: CAG functions mainly as Auditor (post-audit) — not a controller. | CAG doesn’t control expenditure, only audits. | CAG reports reviewed by PAC — PAC chairman is from Opposition. | Reports go to President (Union) and Governor (State).
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Finance Commission of India Article 280 Constitutional · Quasi-Judicial · Recommendatory
Article280 — Finance Commission. Governed by Finance Commission (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1951.
NatureConstitutional, Quasi-Judicial, Recommendatory — advisory, not binding on President
CompositionChairman + 4 Members. Chairman: person with public affairs experience. Members: economics / finance / law background (as per Finance Commission Act, 1951).
AppointmentPresident constitutes every 5 years (or at any earlier time deemed necessary).
TenureAs determined by President. Members are eligible for reappointment.
Current FC16th Finance Commission — constituted 2023 under Dr. Arvind Panagariya; recommendations for 2026–31.
ReportSubmitted to President → laid before both Houses of Parliament. Recommendations are advisory — President is NOT bound to accept.
Functions (Art. 280(3))
  • Distribution of net proceeds of taxes between Centre and States (vertical devolution)
  • Allocation of shares among the States (horizontal devolution)
  • Principles governing grants-in-aid by Centre to States (Art. 275)
  • Any other matter referred by President (e.g., local bodies, SDRF)
16th FC Key Recommendations (2026–31)
  • States’ share in divisible pool: 41% (unchanged)
  • Shift towards performance-based devolution (fiscal discipline, tax effort, governance)
  • Move from equity/need-based → efficiency & outcome-based transfers
  • Introduction of States’ contribution to national GDP (GSDP share) as a performance-linked factor
  • Push for fiscal discipline — ~3% GSDP deficit target, subsidy rationalisation, limiting off-budget borrowings
  • Greater use of performance-linked grants and rationalisation of grant structure
Prelims Traps: Finance Commission is constitutional but recommendations are NOT binding. | Constituted every 5 years — NOT a permanent body. | 16th FC: Arvind Panagariya. |
⭐ UPSC Prelims & Mains Asked
Attorney General of India (AGI) Article 76 Constitutional · Chief Law Officer of India
Article76 — Attorney General for India
QualificationMust be qualified to be appointed as a Supreme Court judge — citizen of India; HC judge for 5 years OR advocate for 10 years.
AppointmentBy President
TenureDuring the pleasure of the President — no fixed tenure.
RemovalBy President at his pleasure — no impeachment procedure. Can also resign.
RemunerationDetermined by President. Paid from Consolidated Fund (not charged to CFI the same way).
Functions
  • Give advice to Government on legal matters referred by President
  • Perform other legal duties assigned by President
  • Appear on behalf of India in Supreme Court in cases where Union is a party
  • Represent India in references under Art. 143 (Presidential Reference to SC)
Rights & Restrictions
  • Right of audience in all courts in India
  • Right to speak & participate in both Houses of Parliament — without right to vote (not an MP)
  • Cannot advise or hold briefs against the Government of India
  • Cannot defend an accused in criminal proceedings where Govt prosecutes
  • Must obtain Govt permission to accept private cases
Prelims Traps: AG has right to speak in both Houses but NOT right to vote. | AG holds office at President’s pleasure — no fixed tenure. | Solicitor General & Additional Solicitor General assist AG but are NOT constitutional posts. | AGI (Art. 76) ≠ Advocate General of State (Art. 165).
National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) Article 338 Constitutional since 89th Amendment, 2003
Article338 — Constitutional status given by 89th Amendment Act, 2003. Earlier statutory under SC/ST Act.
NatureConstitutional, Investigative, Advisory
CompositionChairperson + Vice Chairperson + 3 other Members. Appointed by President by warrant under hand and seal.
PowersPowers of a Civil Court — can summon, take evidence, inspect records.
ReportAnnual report to President → laid before Parliament. State-specific matters referred to Governor.
Functions
  • Investigate & monitor matters relating to safeguards for SCs under Constitution
  • Enquire into specific complaints of SCs regarding deprivation of rights
  • Advise on planning of socio-economic development of SCs
  • Present annual reports to President
  • Report on any matter affecting welfare of SCs
Prelims Trap: 89th Amendment, 2003 bifurcated the old combined SC/ST Commission into NCSC (Art. 338) and NCST (Art. 338A). Before 89th Amendment, Article 338 dealt with both SC & ST together.
NCSC also covers Anglo-Indian safeguards under Article 338 (even though their reservation in legislatures was removed by the 104th Amendment, 2020).
⭐ UPSC Prelims Asked
National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) Article 338A Constitutional · Inserted by 89th Amendment, 2003
Article338A — Inserted by 89th Amendment Act, 2003; bifurcated from old Art. 338.
CompositionChairperson + Vice Chairperson + 3 other Members. Appointed by President.
PowersPowers of a Civil Court for investigating matters.
FunctionsSame as NCSC but for Scheduled Tribes: investigate safeguards, inquire into complaints, advise on development planning, present annual reports to President.
Special RoleConsulted on matters related to 5th & 6th Schedule areas — tribal special provisions.
Note: Article 338A created by 89th Amendment 2003. NCST has additional mandate on 5th and 6th Schedule areas — unlike NCSC.
National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) Article 338B Constitutional since 102nd Amendment, 2018
Article338B — Inserted by 102nd Amendment Act, 2018. Earlier NCBC was only statutory (NCBC Act, 1993).
CompositionChairperson + Vice Chairperson + 3 Members (at least one woman). Appointed by President.
FunctionsInvestigate safeguards for OBCs, inquire into complaints, advise on OBC development, present reports to President.
Special Note102nd Amendment also inserted Art. 342A — gives President power to specify SEBCs (Socially and Educationally Backward Classes) for Central purposes.
Prelims Trap: NCBC became constitutional only with 102nd Amendment 2018 (Art. 338B). | 103rd Amendment 2019: 10% EWS reservation (Art. 15(6) & 16(6)).
⭐ UPSC Asked
GST Council Article 279A Constitutional · Inserted by 101st Amendment, 2016
Article279A — Inserted by 101st Amendment Act, 2016
NatureConstitutional, Joint forum of Centre and States, Recommendatory
CompositionUnion Finance Minister (Chairperson) + Union Minister of State for Revenue + Finance Ministers of all States/UTs (Members)
VotingCentre: 1/3rd weightage. States together: 2/3rd weightage. Decision requires 3/4th majority of weighted votes. Centre has effective veto.
Functions
  • Recommend GST rates, exemptions, threshold limits
  • Recommend special provisions for certain states
  • Recommend date for levy of GST on petroleum, tobacco etc.
  • Recommend model GST laws, principles of levy, apportionment
Prelims Traps: GST Council is constitutional but decisions are only RECOMMENDATORY. | Centre: 1/3 vote; States collectively: 2/3 vote; 3/4 majority needed. | SC ruled in 2022 that GST Council recommendations are not binding (no statutory force).
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities (CLM) Article 350B Constitutional · 7th Amendment, 1956
Article350B — Inserted by 7th Amendment Act, 1956
AppointmentBy President. Reports to President who forwards reports to States concerned.
FunctionInvestigate matters relating to safeguards for linguistic minorities. Present annual report to President + state-specific reports.
HQAllahabad, with sub-offices
State Public Service Commission (SPSC) Articles 315–323 Constitutional · State-Level
Articles315–323 (same Part XIV of Constitution as UPSC)
CompositionChairman + Members — determined by Governor. At least half must have held Govt office for 10 years.
AppointmentChairman & Members: by Governor (NOT President)
Tenure6 years or age 62 — whichever is earlier. (SPSC age limit is 62, not 65 as in UPSC)
RemovalOnly by President (NOT Governor) — on grounds of misbehaviour after SC inquiry. Key independence safeguard.
ReportAnnual report to Governor → placed before State Legislature
Prelims Trap: SPSC appointed by Governor BUT removed only by President — independence safeguard. | Age limit for SPSC: 62 (not 65). | Parliament can extend UPSC to serve a State (Art. 321).
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Advocate General of the State Article 165 Constitutional · Chief Law Officer of State
Article165 — Advocate General for the State
QualificationMust be qualified to be appointed as a High Court judge
AppointmentBy Governor (state equivalent of AGI)
TenureHolds office during the pleasure of the Governor — no fixed tenure.
FunctionsAdvise State Govt on legal matters; perform duties assigned by Governor; appear in HC for State. Has right of audience in all State courts.
Prelims Trap: Advocate General (State) ≠ Attorney General (Union). | AG State: Art. 165; qualified as HC judge; appointed by Governor. | AGI: Art. 76; qualified as SC judge; appointed by President.

🟢 Part 2 — Statutory Bodies

Created by Acts of Parliament
National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 Statutory · Quasi-Judicial · Advisory
Established byProtection of Human Rights Act, 1993 (amended 2006, 2019)
CompositionChairperson (retired Chief Justice of India) + 5 Members [retired SC judge + retired CJ of HC + 3 others from human rights experience]. 2019 Amendment: Widened eligibility — civil society persons also eligible.
AppointmentPresident on recommendation of 6-member committee: PM (Chairperson) + Speaker of Lok Sabha + Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha + Leaders of Opposition in both Houses + Home Minister.
Tenure3 years or age 70 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for reappointment.
RemovalBy President on grounds of misbehaviour/incapacity after SC inquiry. Also: insolvency, paid employment, infirmity of mind/body.
ReportAnnual report to Central Govt → laid before both Houses of Parliament.
Functions
  • Inquire into complaints of human rights violations by State actors
  • Visit jails and detention centres to study conditions
  • Review constitutional & legal safeguards for human rights
  • Recommend remedial measures to Government
  • Promote human rights literacy; spread awareness
  • Undertake research on human rights
Limitations
  • Cannot investigate matters complained of more than 1 year before complaint
  • Cannot investigate armed forces violations — can only request reports
  • Recommendations are NOT binding on the Government
  • Quasi-judicial body — cannot award compensation directly; only recommends
Prelims Traps: NHRC cannot investigate Armed Forces complaints directly. | Recommendations are advisory — not binding. | 1-year limitation on filing complaints. | Chairperson must be retired CJI — not sitting CJI.
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Central Information Commission (CIC) Right to Information Act, 2005 Statutory
Established byRight to Information Act, 2005
CompositionChief Information Commissioner + Information Commissioners — number as Central Govt deems fit (max 10)
AppointmentPresident on recommendation of a committee: PM + Leader of Opposition in LS + a Cabinet Minister nominated by PM
TenureRTI Amendment Act 2019: Tenure now determined by Central Govt (earlier fixed 5 years). Ineligible for reappointment. Max age: 65 years.
RemovalBy President on grounds of misbehaviour/incapacity after SC inquiry.
Functions
  • Receive & decide second appeals from citizens
  • Receive & decide complaints about denial of information
  • Impose penalties on erring PIOs (Public Information Officers) — up to ₹25,000
  • Award compensation to complainant
  • Recommend disciplinary action against erring officials
Prelims Trap: RTI Amendment 2019 removed fixed 5-year tenure — now Central Govt decides. | CIC cannot suo motu take cognisance. | Certain organisations (intelligence, security agencies) exempt from RTI. | Political parties are NOT public authorities under RTI (SC held).
⭐ UPSC Asked — RTI Amendment 2019
Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) CVC Act, 2003 Statutory · Anti-Corruption
Established byCVC Act, 2003. Originally set up by executive resolution in 1964 (Santhanam Committee recommendations).
CompositionCentral Vigilance Commissioner (Chairman) + 2 Vigilance Commissioners
AppointmentPresident on recommendation of committee: PM + Home Minister + Leader of Opposition in LS
Tenure4 years or age 65 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for reappointment.
RemovalBy President on grounds of misbehaviour/incapacity after SC inquiry. Also: insolvency, paid employment outside, infirmity.
ReportAnnual report to President → laid before both Houses of Parliament.
Functions
  • Superintendence over CBI for offences under Prevention of Corruption Act (PC Act) only
  • Superintendence over Vigilance administration in Central Govt ministries
  • Inquire into offences by Central Govt employees (Group A & B)
  • Review CVOs (Chief Vigilance Officers) performance
  • Advise on prosecution sanctions
Prelims Trap: CVC superintends CBI only for PC Act cases — NOT for all CBI cases. | CVC recommendations are advisory — not binding. | CVC ≠ CBI (CBI is executive; CVC is statutory).
⭐ UPSC Asked
Lokpal of India Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 Statutory · National Anti-Corruption Ombudsman
Established byLokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013
CompositionChairperson + max 8 Members; at least 50% must be from SC/ST/OBC/Minority/Women. Chairperson: former CJI or former SC judge or person of impeccable integrity with 25 yrs in public affairs.
AppointmentPresident on recommendation of Selection Committee: PM (Chairperson) + Speaker of LS + Leader of Opposition in LS + CJI or SC judge + eminent jurist nominated by President.
Tenure5 years or age 70 — whichever is earlier. Not eligible for reappointment.
RemovalBy President on SC inquiry for misbehaviour/incapacity. Also: insolvency, paid employment, etc.
First LokpalJustice Pinaki Chandra Ghose — appointed 2019
Jurisdiction
  • Investigates corruption complaints against: PM, Union Ministers, MPs, Group A/B/C/D Central Govt employees
  • PM’s jurisdiction is limited — national security, public order, international relations excluded
  • Also covers NGOs receiving substantial Central Govt funding
Important Provisions
  • Lokpal has its own Prosecution Wing and Inquiry Wing
  • Supervises CBI for cases referred by Lokpal
  • CBI cannot transfer officers without Lokpal’s approval in referred cases
  • Lokpal may impose penalty for false complaints
Prelims Trap: Lokpal can investigate the PM — but with restrictions. | Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 mandates states to establish Lokayuktas — but no specific design prescribed. | First Lokpal: Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose (2019).
⭐ UPSC Prelims & Mains Asked
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) SEBI Act, 1992 Statutory · 3-in-1 Regulatory Body
Established bySEBI Act, 1992. Earlier set up as executive body in 1988.
NatureStatutory, Regulatory — Quasi-Legislative + Quasi-Judicial + Executive (3-in-1 body)
CompositionChairman + 2 members from Union Ministry of Finance + 1 from RBI + 5 other members appointed by Central Govt
AppointmentBy Central Government
Functions (Threefold)
  • Quasi-Legislative: Issues regulations, guidelines, circulars for securities market
  • Quasi-Judicial: Adjudicates disputes; passes orders; Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT) for appeals
  • Executive: Investigates, inspects, conducts enquiries; takes enforcement action
Key Regulatory Roles
  • Regulates stock exchanges (BSE, NSE), brokers, sub-brokers, FIIs
  • Registers & regulates mutual funds, portfolio managers, investment advisers
  • Prohibits insider trading & fraudulent practices
  • Regulates takeovers & mergers
Prelims Trap: SEBI has legislative, executive AND judicial functions. | SAT → appeal from SEBI orders → then SC. | SEBI regulates commodity derivatives after merging with FMC (2015). | SEBI ≠ RBI (RBI regulates banks; SEBI regulates securities market).
⭐ UPSC Asked
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) CPCR Act, 2005 Statutory · Advisory
Established byCommissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005
NatureStatutory, Regulatory, Advisory. Under Ministry of Women & Child Development.
CompositionChairperson (child rights/education/development experience) + 6 Members (at least 2 women; one each from law, child health, education, child development, juvenile justice, child distress areas).
Tenure3 years. Chairperson max age: 65; Member max age: 60. Not eligible for reappointment.
FunctionsExamine & review safeguards for child rights; recommend measures; study jails & juvenile homes; look into child rights violations.
Special RoleMonitors implementation of RTE Act, 2009 and POCSO Act, 2012
Prelims Trap: NCPCR is statutory (not constitutional). It monitors RTE & POCSO. Under WCD Ministry.
National Commission for Women (NCW) NCW Act, 1990 Statutory
Established byNational Commission for Women Act, 1990. Under Ministry of Women & Child Development.
CompositionChairperson + 5 Members + 1 Member Secretary. Appointed by Central Govt. At least one member from SC and one from ST background.
Tenure3 years. Members eligible for reappointment up to max of 2 terms.
FunctionsReview laws; recommend remedies; investigate discrimination complaints; advise on women’s welfare policies; report annually to Central Govt.
Prelims Trap: NCW is statutory (not constitutional). Under WCD Ministry.
National Medical Commission (NMC) NMC Act, 2019 Statutory · Replaced MCI
Established byNational Medical Commission Act, 2019 — replaced Medical Council of India (MCI) in 2020.
CompositionChairperson + 25 Members including 4 autonomous boards: Undergraduate Medical Education Board, Post-Graduate Medical Education Board, Medical Assessment & Rating Board, Ethics & Medical Registration Board.
FunctionsRegulates medical education & profession; maintains National Medical Register; sets standards; promotes ethical medical practice.
Prelims Trap: NMC replaced MCI in 2020 (NMC Act 2019). Maintains National Medical Register.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) TRAI Act, 1997 Statutory · Regulatory
Established byTRAI Act, 1997 (amended 2000)
CompositionChairperson + max 2 full-time members + max 2 part-time members
AppealsTelecom Disputes Settlement & Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) — appeals from TRAI orders go here → then HC/SC
FunctionsRegulates telecom services, tariffs, spectrum usage; recommends on licensing; protects consumer interests; recommends spectrum pricing to DoT.
Prelims Trap: TRAI recommends but DoT (Dept of Telecom) issues licences. | TRAI cannot cancel licences directly. | TDSAT handles disputes.
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) RBI Act, 1934 Statutory · Central Bank
Established byRBI Act, 1934. Nationalised in 1949.
CompositionGovernor + 4 Deputy Governors + Central Board of Directors (15 Directors) + Local Boards
AppointmentGovernor and DGs appointed by Central Govt
TenureGovernor: 3 years (renewable)
Key Functions
  • Monetary policy — Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) since 2016: 6 members (3 RBI + 3 external appointed by Govt)
  • Banker to Central & State Governments
  • Regulates commercial banks, NBFCs, cooperative banks
  • Issues currency notes — except ₹1 note (issued by Ministry of Finance)
  • Manages foreign exchange reserves
  • Manages Public Debt
Prelims Traps: ₹1 note is issued by Ministry of Finance (not RBI). | MPC: 3 RBI + 3 external members = 6 total. | RBI regulates banks; SEBI regulates securities market.
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) Aadhaar Act, 2016 Statutory · Under MeitY
Established byAadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. Earlier: executive body under MoEF (2009).
FunctionsIssues Aadhaar — 12-digit unique biometric identity number; manages biometric database; authenticates identity for DBT, subsidies, services.
Prelims Trap: UIDAI became statutory only after Aadhaar Act 2016. | SC upheld Aadhaar (2018) — but restricted mandatory use in private services. | Under MeitY.
National Investigation Agency (NIA) NIA Act, 2008 Statutory · Under MHA
Established byNational Investigation Agency Act, 2008 — after 26/11 Mumbai attacks
NatureStatutory, Central counter-terrorism investigation agency under Ministry of Home Affairs.
JurisdictionDoes NOT require State Govt consent to investigate scheduled offences — key difference from CBI.
Scheduled OffencesUAPA, Atomic Energy Act, Anti-Hijacking Act, Maritime Navigation Safety Act, WMD Act, etc.
Prelims Trap: NIA does NOT need State consent (unlike CBI). | Set up after 26/11. | Under MHA (not DoPT like CBI).
⭐ UPSC Asked

🟣 Part 3 — Non-Constitutional / Extra-Constitutional Bodies

Created by Executive Resolution — no constitutional or statutory basis
NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) Executive Resolution — 2015 Extra-Constitutional · Non-Statutory · Think-Tank
Created byCabinet Resolution, January 1, 2015 — replaced Planning Commission (also executive resolution, 1950)
NatureExtra-constitutional, Non-statutory, Policy advisory think-tank. Has NO executive power — cannot direct ministries.
Structure
  • Chairperson: Prime Minister
  • Vice Chairperson: Appointed by PM (Cabinet Minister rank)
  • Full-Time Members (Cabinet Minister rank)
  • Part-Time Members: Leading universities/research institutions
  • Ex-Officio Members: Up to 4 Union Cabinet Ministers
  • CEO: Secretary to Govt of India rank
  • Governing Council: Chief Ministers of all States + Lt. Governors of UTs
Key Differences from Planning Commission
  • Planning Commission: Top-down; allocated funds to states. NITI Aayog: Cooperative federalism; states are stakeholders.
  • NITI Aayog has NO allocation power — Finance Ministry allocates funds.
  • NITI Aayog is a think-tank; Planning Commission was an implementer.
Key Initiatives
  • SDG India Index, Innovation Index, Health Index, Water Management Index
  • Aspirational Districts Programme
  • Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), SATH (education + health)
Prelims Traps: NITI Aayog cannot allocate funds — only advises. | Planning Commission also had no constitutional basis — executive resolution (1950). | NITI Aayog Chairperson = PM. | Governing Council has all CMs (unlike Planning Commission’s NDC).
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked
Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) DSPE Act, 1946 + Executive Resolution Executive + Partial Statutory Backing
Legal BasisDelhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946. CBI set up by executive resolution in 1963 under Home Ministry — now under Ministry of Personnel.
NatureExecutive body with statutory backing via DSPE Act. NOT directly constitutional.
Director2-year fixed tenure; appointed by a Committee: PM + CJI + Leader of Opposition in LS (Lokpal Act 2013 provision).
JurisdictionInvestigates corruption by Central Govt employees (PC Act), economic offences, special crime cases. Requires consent of State Govt to operate in state territory. States can withdraw general consent.
Supervised byCVC (for PC Act cases); Lokpal (for referred cases); otherwise under Ministry of Personnel.
Special CourtsCases tried in CBI Special Courts designated by Central Govt.
Prelims Traps: CBI needs State consent to operate in states — several states have withdrawn general consent. | “Caged Parrot” observation by Supreme Court (2013). | CBI Director: 2-year fixed tenure by Lokpal Act 2013. | CBI under DSPE Act — jurisdiction: Delhi + consent-based elsewhere.
⭐ UPSC Asked — State Consent Issue
Enforcement Directorate (ED) FEMA, 1999 + PMLA, 2002 Executive · Statutory backing via FEMA + PMLA
Created by1956 (under Finance Ministry). Gets statutory power under FEMA 1999 and PMLA 2002.
NatureFinancial intelligence and enforcement agency. Under Department of Revenue (Ministry of Finance).
Key FunctionsEnforces FEMA (foreign exchange violations); enforces PMLA (money laundering); attaches properties of accused; files prosecution complaints before PMLA courts.
Special CourtsPMLA Special Courts for money laundering trials
Prelims Trap: ED works under FEMA (civil) and PMLA (criminal). | ED comes under Finance Ministry (unlike CBI under Ministry of Personnel). | PMLA: burden of proof on accused — reverse burden of proof (UPSC asked).
⭐ UPSC Frequently Asked — PMLA
Other Important Statutory/Executive Bodies — Quick Notes Reference
Important Regulators
  • IRDA (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority): IRDA Act 1999 | Regulates insurance sector
  • PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority): PFRDA Act 2013 | Regulates pension sector, NPS
  • IBBI (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India): IBC Act 2016 | Regulates insolvency resolution
  • Competition Commission of India (CCI): Competition Act 2002 | Prevents monopoly and anti-competitive practices | Quasi-judicial
  • Forward Markets Commission (FMC): Merged with SEBI in 2015
  • Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA): AERA Act 2008 | Regulates major airports tariffs
Advisory/Policy Bodies (Executive)
  • National Security Council (NSC): Executive body | Chaired by PM | Three-tier: NSC → Strategic Policy Group → National Security Advisory Board
  • Economic Advisory Council to PM (EAC-PM): Advisory; 5 members; advises PM on economic matters
  • Inter-State Council: Art. 263 | Constitutional | Advisory on Centre-State relations
  • National Development Council (NDC): Executive | PM + Union Cabinet + CMs + Lt. Governors | Now effectively NITI Aayog’s Governing Council
Tribunals (Statutory)
  • National Green Tribunal (NGT): NGT Act 2010 | Adjudicates environmental disputes; 5 benches; Chairman = retired SC judge | Cannot entertain petitions older than 6 months
  • Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT): SEBI Act | Appeals from SEBI orders
  • National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT): Companies Act 2013 | Corporate disputes, insolvency
  • Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT): AFT Act 2007 | Service disputes of armed forces personnel

📋 Comparative Quick Reference — All Bodies

One-line snapshot for rapid revision
ECI Art. 324
Constitutional · CEC: SC judge removal · Tenure: 6 yrs/65 · Salary: CFI · Conducts Parliament, State, President, VP elections
UPSC Art. 315–323
Constitutional · Appointed by President · Tenure: 6 yrs/65 · Advisory (not binding) · Annual report to President/Parliament
CAG Art. 148–151
Constitutional · SC judge removal · Tenure: 6 yrs/65 · Salary: CFI · 3 reports to President; reviewed by PAC
Finance Commission Art. 280
Constitutional (Quasi-Judicial) · 5-year cycle · Advisory · 16th FC: Arvind Panagariya (2026–31)
AGI Art. 76
Constitutional · President’s pleasure (no fixed tenure) · Can speak in Parliament (cannot vote)
NCSC Art. 338
Constitutional since 89th Amendment 2003 · Civil court powers · Reports to President
NCST Art. 338A
Constitutional (89th Amendment 2003) · Additional role on 5th & 6th Schedule
NCBC Art. 338B
Constitutional (102nd Amendment 2018) · Earlier only statutory
GST Council Art. 279A
Constitutional (101st Amendment 2016) · Recommendatory · 3/4th majority; Centre:1/3, States:2/3
SPSC Art. 315–323
Constitutional · Appointed by Governor BUT removed by President · Tenure: 6 yrs/62
NHRC PHR Act 1993
Statutory · Chairman: retired CJI · Tenure: 3 yrs/70 · Cannot investigate Armed Forces
CIC RTI Act 2005
Statutory · Tenure decided by Central Govt (post 2019 amendment)
CVC CVC Act 2003
Statutory · Tenure: 4 yrs/65 · Superintends CBI for PC Act cases only
Lokpal Lokpal Act 2013
Statutory · Tenure: 5 yrs/70 · First Lokpal: Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose (2019)
SEBI SEBI Act 1992
Statutory · 3-in-1 (legislative + judicial + executive) · SAT for appeals
RBI RBI Act 1934
Statutory · MPC: 6 members (3+3) · Issues currency (not ₹1 note)
NMC NMC Act 2019
Statutory · Replaced MCI · Maintains National Medical Register
NGT NGT Act 2010
Statutory Tribunal · Chairman: retired SC judge · 5 benches · 6-month limitation
NIA NIA Act 2008
Statutory · Does NOT need State consent · Under MHA
NITI Aayog Exec. Res. 2015
Extra-Constitutional · Replaced Planning Commission · No fund allocation power · Think tank
CBI DSPE Act 1946
Executive + Partial Statutory Backing · Needs State consent · Director: 2-year fixed tenure
ED FEMA + PMLA
Executive (Statutory backing) · Under Finance Ministry · Reverse burden of proof under PMLA

🏛️ Appointment & Tenure Dashboard

Key constitutional nuances frequently asked
🖋️ Appointments “By Warrant under Hand & Seal”
  • Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) — Art. 148
  • Judges of Supreme Court & High Courts
  • Governor of a State
  • National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) — Art. 338
  • National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) — Art. 338A
  • National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) — Art. 338B
Note: Although the President appoints the CEC and UPSC Chairman, the Constitution does not explicitly use the phrase “by warrant under his hand and seal” for them.
⚖️ Doctrine of Pleasure vs Secured Tenure
Under “Pleasure of the President”
  • Attorney General of India (AGI)
  • Union Ministers
  • Governors of States (subject to SC limits — not arbitrary)
Secured Tenure (Not under Pleasure)
  • CEC & Election Commissioners — Removal like SC Judge
  • CAG — Removal like SC Judge
  • UPSC Chairman & Members — Removal after Supreme Court inquiry
  • SPSC Chairman & Members — Removed by President after SC inquiry
  • CVC, CIC, Lokpal, NHRC — Fixed tenure; removal via formal process
🤝 Composition of Selection Committees
  • CEC & Election Commissioners: PM (Chair) · LoP (LS) · Union Cabinet Minister (nominated by PM)
  • NHRC: PM · Speaker (LS) · Deputy Chairman (RS) · LoP (LS & RS) · Union Home Minister
  • CVC: PM · Union Home Minister · LoP (LS)
  • CIC: PM · LoP (LS) · Union Cabinet Minister
  • Lokpal: PM · Speaker (LS) · LoP (LS) · CJI (or nominee) · Eminent Jurist
  • CBI Director: PM · CJI (or nominee) · LoP / leader of largest opposition party
  • Director of Enforcement (ED): CVC (Chair) · Vigilance Commissioners · Secretaries (Home, Revenue, Personnel)
⚡ Quick Prelims Traps
CBI selection committee does NOT include Home Minister (CJI is included).
CVC selection committee includes Home Minister (not CJI).
CJI removed from ECI selection committee after 2023 Act.
If LoP not available → leader of largest opposition party is included.
⚡ Master Quick Revision — High-Yield Prelims Points 30 points to scan before the exam
ECI — CEC removal: Like SC judge — special majority in both Houses of Parliament
ECI conducts elections to: Parliament + State Legislatures + President + Vice President
Model Code of Conduct: Advisory — NOT statutory
UPSC advice: Consultative (advisory) — NOT binding. Report to President + Parliament.
SPSC age limit: 62 (not 65); Appointed by Governor; Removed only by President
CAG called: “Guardian of Public Purse” + “Friend, Philosopher and Guide of PAC”
CAG reports: 3 to President (Union); State reports to Governor
CAG post-retirement: Ineligible for any further Govt office
Finance Commission: Quasi-Judicial; recommendations NOT binding; constituted every 5 yrs; 16th FC = Arvind Panagariya
AGI: Art. 76; no fixed tenure; can speak in Parliament (not vote); qualified as SC judge
89th Amendment 2003: Bifurcated old Art. 338 → NCSC (Art. 338) + NCST (Art. 338A)
102nd Amendment 2018: NCBC becomes constitutional (Art. 338B)
101st Amendment 2016: GST Council (Art. 279A)
GST Council voting: Centre 1/3; States 2/3; 3/4 majority needed
NHRC limitation: Cannot investigate complaints older than 1 year; cannot directly investigate Armed Forces
CIC tenure: Changed by RTI Amendment 2019 — now determined by Central Govt
Lokpal — First: Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose (2019); Statutory (Lokpal Act 2013)
CBI needs State consent; NIA does NOT need State consent
NITI Aayog: Executive Resolution 2015; NO allocation power; PM is chairperson
Planning Commission: Also executive resolution (1950); abolished 2014
₹1 note: Issued by Ministry of Finance (Finance Secretary’s signature), not RBI
MPC: 6 members = 3 RBI + 3 external Govt nominees
PMLA burden of proof: Reverse burden — accused must prove innocence
NGT: 6-month limitation for filing; Chairman = retired SC judge; 5 benches
SEBI: 3-in-1 body — legislative + judicial + executive functions
PAC Chairman: Traditionally from the Opposition party
Inter-State Council: Art. 263; Constitutional; advisory on Centre-State issues
CBI Director: 2-year fixed tenure; appointed by PM + CJI + Leader of Opposition
Advocate General (State): Art. 165; qualified as HC judge (not SC judge); appointed by Governor
CAG post-audit only: Despite title “Comptroller” — does NOT control expenditure

Written by Opendra Kumar This is a comprehensive and meticulously curated repository covering Constitutional, Statutory, and other important bodies for UPSC CSE. Designed for clarity, completeness, and high-retention revision.

Built with significant effort to make quality UPSC content freely accessible. If you find it valuable, you may consider supporting this initiative.

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