Boards and Commissions | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Objectives

• To understand the significance and role of commissions in the Indian governance system.
• To explore the types of commissions established in India and their functions.
• To analyze the impact of commissions on policy formulation, social justice, and administrative reforms in the country.

Introduction

Commissions play a crucial role in the governance structure of India. They are independent bodies established by the government to investigate, inquire, and make recommendations on specific issues of public interest. Commissions in India serve as important instruments for policy formulation, social justice, and administrative reforms.

Commissions in India

1. National Commissions: These commissions are established at the national level to address issues of national importance. Examples include the National Human Rights Commission, National Commission for Women, National Commission for Scheduled Castes, and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes.
2. State Commissions: State commissions are created at the state level to address regional or state-specific issues. Each state may have its own commissions, such as State Human Rights Commissions, State Women's Commissions, and State Minority Commissions.
3. Statutory Commissions: Statutory commissions are established under specific acts of legislation passed by the Parliament or state legislatures. These commissions have defined powers, functions, and jurisdictions. Examples include the Election Commission of India and the Finance Commission.
4. Inquiry Commissions: Inquiry commissions are constituted to investigate and inquire into specific incidents, events, or matters of public importance. These commissions are typically appointed to probe major incidents such as communal riots, industrial accidents, or corruption cases. They have the authority to summon witnesses, examine evidence, and submit reports with recommendations.
5. Administrative Reforms Commissions: These commissions are established to review and suggest reforms in the administrative systems and processes of the government. They analyze the functioning of government departments, identify bottlenecks, and propose measures for efficiency and transparency.

The functions of commissions in India include:

• Conducting investigations and inquiries on specific issues.
• Collecting data, evidence, and inputs from stakeholders.
• Making recommendations to the government on policy matters.
• Safeguarding and promoting the rights and interests of specific groups or communities.
• Monitoring and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.

Commissions in India have played a significant role in shaping policies and bringing about social justice. They have addressed issues related to human rights violations, discrimination, gender inequality, and the protection of marginalized communities. The recommendations made by commissions often form the basis for policy changes and legislative reforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, commissions in India serve as important mechanisms for governance, social justice, and administrative reforms. They address diverse issues, ranging from human rights to administrative efficiency. The establishment of various types of commissions at the national and state levels reflects the commitment of the Indian government to ensuring inclusive governance and protecting the rights and interests of its citizens.