Who has the authority to create a "Joint State Public Service Commission"?

The correct answer is Parliament of India.

Key Points

• The authority to create a "Joint State Public Service Commission" (JSPSC) rests with the Parliament of India under Article 315 of the Constitution of India.
• The Parliament can create a JSPSC for two or more states through an enactment of law.
• This provision is intended to streamline recruitment processes and ensure efficiency in states with similar administrative needs.
• The JSPSC performs functions for multiple states and operates as per the guidelines laid down in the legislation passed by the Parliament.
• A JSPSC is headed by a Chairman and other members as decided by the President of India based on the recommendations of the concerned states.

Additional Information

• Article 315 of the Indian Constitution:
  • It provides for the establishment of Public Service Commissions for the Union and individual states.
  • It also allows for the creation of a Joint State Public Service Commission for two or more states.
• Role of the President:
  • The President appoints the Chairman and members of the Joint State Public Service Commission as per the provisions of Article 316.
  • The terms and conditions of service of these members are also determined by the President.
• State Public Service Commissions (SPSCs):
  • SPSCs are autonomous constitutional bodies responsible for conducting examinations for appointments to state services.
  • They ensure merit-based recruitment and advise the state government on disciplinary matters.
• Need for Joint Commissions:
  • Joint commissions are created to manage administrative efficiency and resource optimization across multiple states.
  • They are particularly useful for states with smaller administrative requirements or limited resources.
• Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):
  • While SPSCs and JSPSCs operate at the state level, the UPSC is a central body responsible for recruitment to All India Services and central government posts.
  • It operates independently under Article 315 of the Indian Constitution.