2.1. Composition and Appointment

UPSC consists of a Chairman and other members appointed by the President of India. The Constitution has not specified the strength of the Commission and left it to the discretion of the President. Usually the Commission consists of nine to eleven members, including the Chairman. Also, no qualification has been prescribed for the Commission’s membership, except that one half of the members of the Commission should be such persons who have held office for at least 10 years either under the government of India or under state government. The Constitution also authorises the President to determine the conditions of service of the Chairman and members. The Chairman and members hold office for a term of 6 years or until they attain age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.