Shri Praveen Vashista appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission

Shri Praveen Vashista has been appointed as the new Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), a pivotal institution in India's fight against corruption. This appointment is significant for UPSC aspirants, particularly for General Studies Paper 2, which covers governance and the role of statutory bodies. Last Updated: 2026-01-19

Key Facts About Shri Praveen Vashista's Appointment

• Shri Praveen Vashista appointed as Vigilance Commissioner.
• Appointment made by the President of India.
• Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) combats corruption.
• Established in 1964 based on the Santhanam Committee recommendations.
• Granted statutory status in 1998.
• Multi-member body with a Central Vigilance Commissioner and up to two Vigilance Commissioners.
• Commissioners appointed by the President based on Prime Minister's recommendations.
• Tenure of four years or until age 65.
• Salary of the Central Vigilance Commissioner equals that of UPSC Chairman.
• Removal can occur for specific grounds, including insolvency or misbehavior.
• Core functions include inquiring into offenses under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
• Supervision of CBI in corruption cases.
• Acts as a designated agency for whistle-blower complaints.
• Jurisdiction includes All India Services and senior officers in Public Sector Banks.
• Each ministry has a Chief Vigilance Officer (CVO).
• Annual report submitted to the President and placed before Parliament.

India's Fight Against Corruption

The appointment of Shri Praveen Vashista as Vigilance Commissioner underscores India's ongoing commitment to combating corruption, a critical aspect of its governance framework. The CVC plays a vital role in ensuring transparency and accountability within the Central Government, aligning with India's broader economic and social goals. According to Transparency International, India's ranking in the Corruption Perceptions Index has been a focal point for policy improvements, emphasizing the need for robust anti-corruption measures.

Related Government Schemes/Policies

• Prevention of Corruption Act: Provides the legal framework for combating corruption in government offices.
• Whistle Blowers Protection Act: Protects individuals who expose corruption or wrongdoing in government bodies.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 2: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International relations - Role of statutory bodies.
• Prelims: Questions on the structure and functions of the CVC, appointment process, and statutory status.
• Mains: Analytical themes on the effectiveness of anti-corruption bodies, governance reforms, and transparency measures.
• Essay Paper: Topics on corruption and governance challenges in India.

FAQ Section

• What is the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)?

  The CVC is a statutory body established to oversee and ensure the integrity of public administration by preventing corruption within the Central Government. It was formed in 1964 and gained statutory status in 1998.

• Why is the appointment of a Vigilance Commissioner important?

  The Vigilance Commissioner plays a crucial role in leading the CVC's efforts to combat corruption, ensuring transparency and accountability in government operations, which is vital for good governance.

• What are the key features of the CVC?

  The CVC is a multi-member body with a Central Vigilance Commissioner and up to two Vigilance Commissioners. It supervises the CBI in corruption cases and acts as a designated agency for whistle-blower complaints.