Competitive Exams

IIT JEE, NEET, ESE, GATE, AE/JE, Olympiad

Only IAS

UPSC, State PSC

School Preparation

Foundation (Class 6-12), Commerce, Arts, CuriousJr (1st - 8th), Science, International Boards

Govt Exam

Judiciary, SSC, Defence, Teaching, JAIIB & CAIIB, BIHAR EXAMS WALLAH, UP Exams, Railway, Nursing Exams, Banking, WB Exams

UG & PG Entrance Exams

MBA, IPMAT, IIT JAM, LAW, CUET UG, UGC NET, GMAT, Design & Architecture, Pharma, CSIR NET, CUET PG, NEET PG

FINANCE

CA, CS, Finance Courses, ACCA

Others

English Wallah, Online Degrees

English Proficiency Test

IELTS, TOEFL

Agriculture

List of Constitutional Bodies in India

Constitutional Bodies in India are an important topic for both Prelims and Mains. Keep reading to learn about various Constitutional Bodies in India and their functions.

Deeksha Dixit17 Oct, 2024

Constitutional Bodies in India : In the UPSC CSE exam , questions often revolve around the roles, functions, and significance of some of the most important Constitutional Bodies in India. These institutions derive their authority directly from the Constitution of India.

Constitutional bodies in India are essential pillars of the Constitution, meant to uphold the laws, rights, and governance systems outlined in the document. Find out more about constitutional bodies in India, what they are, how they function, and how they differ from non-constitutional bodies here.

About Constitutional Bodies in India

Constitutional Bodies in India are institutions or bodies that derive their powers and existence directly from the Constitution . Their functions, duties, and structures are well-defined in the Constitution, ensuring they operate autonomously and impartially. Constitutional Bodies in India play key roles in maintaining checks and balances within the governmental framework. UPSC often asks questions in Prelims and Mains based on the roles, functions, and significance of these bodies, making it an important topic for aspirants.

List of Constitutional Bodies in India

Each constitutional body has specific roles crucial to maintaining the integrity of the country's governance. Here's a detailed constitutional bodies list that will help you in your UPSC preparation:

1. Election Commission of India (ECI)

The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting free and fair elections across the country.

Election Commission
Constitutional Provision	Article 324
Established	1950
Purpose	Ensure fair elections for Parliament and State Legislatures
Composition	Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) + Other Commissioners
Current Structure	Chief Election Commissioner and Two Election Commissioners
Appointment	By the President of India on the recommendation of a three-member committee consisting of Prime Minister of India Nominated Union Minister Lok Sabha’s Leader of Opposition (LoP)
Tenure	Six years or until age 65
Duties	Superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India
Removal	CEC: Same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court. Other EC : Recommendation of the CEC
Post-Tenure Appointment	Eligible
Exclusions	Not for panchayat/municipal elections; handled by State Election Commissions

2. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India's central recruitment agency, established by the Constitution.

Union Public Service Commission
Constitutional Provision	Articles 315 to 323
Purpose	Serves as the 'watchdog of merit' in recruitment
Composition	Consists of a chairman and other members appointed by the President, typically 9 to 11 members in total.
Condition	Half of the members must have held office for at least ten years under the Government of India or a state government.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	Members serve for 6 years or until they turn 65, whichever comes first; they can resign by writing to the President.
Duties	Conducts examinations for all-India and Central services, assists states with joint recruitment and advises on recruitment processes and disciplinary matters.
Removal	The President can remove members for insolvency, engaging in outside employment, unfitness, or misbehavior (following a Supreme Court inquiry).
Post-Tenure Appointment	Chairman is not eligible for further employment. Other members can become Chairman of UPSC or a State Public Service Commission, but not for other roles. No member is eligible for a second term
Limitations	Not consulted on reservations, specific group appointments, or temporary positions.

3. State Public Service Commission (SPSC)

Next on the list of Constitutional Bodies in India is the State Public Service Commission which functions similarly to UPSC.

State Public Service Commission
Constitutional Provision	Articles 315 to 323
Purpose	Serves as the 'watchdog of merit' in recruitment
Composition	Chairman and members as determined by the governor
Appointment	By the Governor of the particular state
Tenure	Six years or until age 62, whichever is earlier.
Duties	Conducts state service exams; advises on recruitment, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary matters; handles legal and pension claims.
Removal	By the president for insolvency, misconduct, or unfitness; requires Supreme Court inquiry for misconduct.
Resignation	To the Governor
Post-Tenure Appointment	Chairman ineligible for further government roles; other members can be appointed as chairmen of UPSC or another SPSC but cannot hold other governmental positions.
Limitations	Not consulted on reservations for backward classes or SC/ST claims; the governor can exempt posts from SPSC consultation.

4. Finance Commission of India (FCI)

The Finance Commission is one of the most important constitutional bodies in India which is constituted every fifth year or at such earlier depending on the requirement.

Finance Commission
Constitutional Provision	Quasi judicial body under Article 280
Composition	Consists of a chairman and four members appointed by the President; members are eligible for reappointment.
Appointment	By President
Qualifications	Chairman: Experience in public affairs. Members: 1. Judge or eligible to be appointed as one. 2. Specialized in finance/accounts. 3. Experience in financial matters and administration. 4. Special knowledge of economics.
Tenure	Specified by the President
Functions	Recommendations on: 1. Distribution of net tax proceeds between the Centre and states. 2. Grants-in-aid principles to states. 3. Augmenting state consolidated funds for local bodies. 4. Other matters referred by the President.
Post-Tenure Appointment	Eligible
Reporting	Submits report to the President, who presents it to Parliament

5. Goods and Services Tax Council (GST Council)

GST Council was established by the 101st Amendment Act of 2016 under the new tax regime.

Goods and Services Tax Council
Constitutional Provision	Article 279-A
Composition	Union Finance Minister (Chairperson) Union Minister of State for Revenue or Finance Finance or Taxation Minister from each state, with a Vice-Chairperson elected among them.
Vision	To establish co-operative federalism and set high standards in GST functioning.
Secretariat	New Delhi
Secretary	Union Revenue Secretary serves as the ex-officio Secretary.
Functions	Recommendations on: 1. Taxes and surcharges merging into GST. 2. Goods and services subject to/exempt from GST. 3. Model GST laws and principles. 4. Exemption thresholds. 5. GST rates. 6. Special rates during calamities. 7. Provisions for certain states. 8. Any other GST-related matters.
Decision	Majority decision of three-fourths of weighted votes: Central Government: 1/3 weightage State Governments : 2/3 weightage.
Quorum	One-half of total members for conducting meetings.

6. National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC)

In the list of constitutional bodies in India, the next one is the National Commission for SC, which established by the 89th Amendment.

National Commission for Scheduled Caste
Constitutional Provision	Article 338
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Investigate and monitor constitutional safeguards for SCs. 2. Inquire into complaints regarding deprivation of rights. 3. Advise on socioeconomic development planning for SCs. 4. Present reports to the President. 5. Recommend measures for effective implementation of safeguards. 6. Perform additional functions as specified by the President.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

7. National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

Similar to NCSC, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body established under Article 338-A of the Constitution of India.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
Constitutional Provision	Article 338-A
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Investigate and monitor constitutional and legal safeguards for STs. 2. Inquire into specific complaints regarding the deprivation of rights of STs. 3. Participate in the planning and evaluation of socioeconomic development of STs. 4. Present reports to the President regarding the effectiveness of safeguards. 5. Recommend measures for the welfare and advancement of STs.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

8. National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)

Among the constitutional bodies in India, the NCBC is dedicated to the welfare and rights of OBCs in India.

National Commission for Backward Classes
Constitutional Provision	Article 338-B
Establishment	Statutory body in 1993 and later granted constitutional status by the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act in 2018.
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Examine requests for inclusion in the Central OBC list. 2. Monitor the implementation of welfare schemes for OBCs. 3. Investigate complaints regarding the deprivation of rights and safeguards for OBCs. 4. Present reports to the President on the effectiveness of safeguards and recommend measures for the advancement of OBCs.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

9. Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities (SOLM)

The Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and interests of linguistic minorities in India.

Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities
Constitutional Provision	Article 350-B
Establishment	Seventh Constitutional Amendment (1956)
Ministry	Ministry of Minority Affairs.
Appointment	Appointed by the President of India.
Headquarters	Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices in Belgaum, Chennai, and Kolkata
Composition	Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities (CLM)
Functions	1. Investigate matters related to safeguards for linguistic minorities. 2. Submit reports on implementation status. 3. Monitor through questionnaires, visits, and meetings.
Reporting	Submits reports to the President, who presents them to Parliament and state governments.

10. Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG)

CAG is one of the most powerful constitutional bodies in India and serves as the guardian of the public purse.

Comptroller and Auditor General
Constitutional Provision	Article 148 to Article 151
Appointment	Appointed by the President of India.
Tenure	Six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
Oath/Affirmation	Must uphold the Constitution and perform duties without fear or favor.
Post-Tenure Appointment	No further government office after term.
Salary	Equal to a Supreme Court judge
Functions	Audits accounts of Union, states, and local authorities; audits expenditures from various funds; certifies tax proceeds; submits reports to President and Governors.
Reporting	Submits reports on appropriation accounts, finance accounts, and public undertakings to the President.
Removal	By the President in the same ground and manner as a judge of the Supreme Court

11. Attorney General of India (AGI)

The Attorney General of India (AGI) is an important constitutional office that serves as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India and is the highest-ranking law officer in the country.

Attorney General of India
Constitutional Provision	Article 76, Article 88, Article 105
Appointment	By the President
Qualification	Must be qualified to be a Supreme Court judge.
Term	No fixed term; holds office during the pleasure of the President.
Remuneration	Not fixed by the Constitution; determined by the President.
Functions	1. Advise the Government of India on legal matters. 2. Perform duties assigned by the President. 3. Discharge functions under the Constitution or laws.
Rights	Has right of audience in all courts; can participate in Parliamentary proceedings (without voting rights).
Removal	Can be removed by the President at any time; no formal procedure specified.

12. Advocate General of the State (AG)

The Advocate General is a key constitutional authority who serves as the chief legal advisor to the state government.

Advocate General
Constitutional Provision	Article 165, Article 177, Article 194
Appointment	Appointed by the Governor of the state
Qualification	Must be a citizen of India; must have held a judicial office for 10 years or been a high court advocate for 10 years
Term	Not fixed; holds office during the pleasure of the Governor
Remuneration	Determined by the Governor; not fixed by the Constitution
Functions	Advise the state government on legal matters Perform other duties assigned by the Governor Discharge functions under the Constitution or other laws
Position	Highest law officer in the state
Removal	Governor can remove the AGl at any time; resignation submitted to the Governor

Constitutional Bodies vs Non Constitutional Bodies

Along with the constitutional bodies in India, several non-constitutional bodies play an equally important role. Here are the major differences among two:

Constitutional Bodies vs Non Constitutional Bodies
Aspect	Constitutional Bodies	Non-Constitutional Bodies
Definition	Established by the Constitution of India	Established by an act of Parliament or through administrative orders
Examples	EC, CAG, NCST, NCSC, etc.	NITI Aayog, NHRC, NIA
Tenure	Defined by the Constitution or specific legislation	Tenure may vary based on the setting up authority
Powers	Powers derived from the Constitution	Powers determined by the enabling legislation or administrative guidelines
Independence	Generally independent; protected by constitutional provisions	Varies; often subject to government control
Accountability	Accountable to Parliament and the Constitution	Accountable to the executive or the body that created them

In conclusion, constitutional bodies in India are the backbone of the country's democratic governance, making them an important topic for the UPSC exam. To further boost your understanding of Indian polity, explore the comprehensive UPSC courses at Physics Wallah which are designed to help you achieve your goals. Hurry up!

UPSC Related Articles
NCERTs for UPSC CSE	UPSC Optional Subjects	Indian Civil Service
UPSC Mains Syllabus	UPSC Exam Analysis	UPSC Result 2024

Constitutional Bodies in India FAQs

What are Constitutional Bodies?

Constitutional Bodies are institutions or bodies created by the Constitution of India to perform specific functions.

How many Constitutional Bodies are there in India?

There are 20 constitutional bodies in India, including ECI, UPSC, FC, and CAG.

What is the role of the UPSC?

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recruits candidates for civil services and other government positions at the national level.

What is the difference between Constitutional and Non-Constitutional Bodies?

Constitutional Bodies derive their existence from the Constitution, whereas Non-Constitutional Bodies are formed by executive orders or acts of Parliament.

Which body ensures free and fair elections in India?

The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting free and fair elections across the country.

🔥 Trending Blogs

Pingali Venkayya: Biography, Contributions, Legacy

lonar lake

Diversity of India

UPSC EPFO Selection Process

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Talk to a counsellorHave doubts? Our support team will be happy to assist you!

7019243492

07019243492

Check out these Related Articles

UPSC

Katchatheevu Island

Read Full Story

31 Jul 2025, 10:00 pm

UPSC CMS Question Paper 2025

Read Full Story

31 Jul 2025, 07:43 pm

UPSC

Shaheed Udham Singh Martyrdom Day

Read Full Story

31 Jul 2025, 01:33 pm

UPSC

Ansar Shaikh: The Youngest IAS Officer in India

Read Full Story

30 Jul 2025, 11:56 pm

UPSC

UPSC EPFO Salary 2025, Pay Scale, Per Month Salary, Allowances, Job Profile

Read Full Story

30 Jul 2025, 11:44 pm

UPSC

Famous IPS Officers in India

Read Full Story

30 Jul 2025, 07:45 pm

UPSC

UPSC Reservation

Read Full Story

30 Jul 2025, 07:14 pm

UPSC

IFS Officer Salary

Read Full Story

30 Jul 2025, 02:52 pm

Join 15 Million students on the app today!

Live & recorded classes available at ease

Dashboard for progress tracking

Millions of practice questions at your fingertips

Free Learning Resources

PW Books

Notes (Class 10-12)

Class 10 Math's Notes

Class 10 Chemistry Notes

Class 10 Physics Notes

lass 10 Biology Notes

Aptitude & Reasoning

Class 10 Geography

Physics Class 11 Notes

Class 11 Chemistry Notes

Maths Notes Class 11

Zoology Class 11

Class 11 Botany Notes

Physics Class 12 notes

Chemistry Class 12

Maths Notes Class 12

Zoology class 12

Class 12th Botany Notes

PW Study Materials

Arjuna JEE Study Material

JEE 5 PYQs

JEE Mind Maps

Yakeen Study Material

NCERT Punch

Arjuna Neet Study Material

NEET PYQs

CBSE Sample Paper

CBSE Question Bank

Udaan For Class 10th Study Material

Notes (Class 6-9)

Class-6 Theory & Notes

Math's Notes for class 7

Science Notes for class 7

Class 8 Math Notes

Class 8 Chemistry Notes

Class 8 Physics Notes

Class 8 Biology Notes

Class 8 SST Notes

Class 9 Math's Notes

Class 9 Physics Notes

Class 9 Chemistry Notes

Class 9 Biology Notes

Ncert Solutions

NCERT Solutions For Class 6

NCERT Solutions For class 7

NCERT Solutions for class 8

NCERT Solutions for class 9

NCERT Solutions for class 10

NCERT Solutions for class 11

NCERT Solutions for Class 12

NCERT Solutions For Class 6

Govt Exams

Entrance Exams

Our Other Websites

Class 6th to 12th Online Courses

Class 12 Online Course

Class 11 Online Course

Class 10 Online Course

Class 9 Online Course

Class 8 Online Course

Govt Job Exams Courses

SSC Online Coaching

Bank Exam Online Coaching

TET Online Coaching

JAIIB & CAIIB Online Coaching

Bihar Exam Online Coaching

UPSC Coaching

UPSC Online Coaching

UPSC Offline & Hybrid Coaching

State PSC Online Coaching

UPPSC Online Coaching

BPSC Online Coaching

Defence Exam Coaching

NDA Online Coaching

CDS Online Coaching

AFCAT Online Coaching

Agniveer Online Coaching

Gate Exam Coaching

Civil Engineering Courses

Mechanical Engineering Courses

Formulas

Other Exams

Company Secretary Exam

Know about Physics Wallah

Physics Wallah is an Indian edtech platform that provides accessible & comprehensive learning experiences to students from Class 6th to postgraduate level. We also provide extensive NCERT solutions, sample paper, NEET, JEE Mains, BITSAT previous year papers & more such resources to students. Physics Wallah also caters to over 3.5 million registered students and over 78 lakh+ Youtube subscribers with 4.8 rating on its app.

We Stand Out because

We provide students with intensive courses with India’s qualified & experienced faculties & mentors. PW strives to make the learning experience comprehensive and accessible for students of all sections of society. We believe in empowering every single student who couldn't dream of a good career in engineering and medical field earlier.

Our Key Focus Areas

Physics Wallah's main focus is to make the learning experience as economical as possible for all students. With our affordable courses like Lakshya, Udaan and Arjuna and many others, we have been able to provide a platform for lakhs of aspirants. From providing Chemistry, Maths, Physics formula to giving e-books of eminent authors like RD Sharma, RS Aggarwal and Lakhmir Singh, PW focuses on every single student's need for preparation.

What Makes Us Different

Physics Wallah strives to develop a comprehensive pedagogical structure for students, where they get a state-of-the-art learning experience with study material and resources. Apart from catering students preparing for JEE Mains and NEET, PW also provides study material for each state board like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and others

About Constitutional Bodies in India

List of Constitutional Bodies in India

Each constitutional body has specific roles crucial to maintaining the integrity of the country's governance. Here's a detailed constitutional bodies list that will help you in your UPSC preparation:

1. Election Commission of India (ECI)

The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting free and fair elections across the country.

Election Commission
Constitutional Provision	Article 324
Established	1950
Purpose	Ensure fair elections for Parliament and State Legislatures
Composition	Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) + Other Commissioners
Current Structure	Chief Election Commissioner and Two Election Commissioners
Appointment	By the President of India on the recommendation of a three-member committee consisting of Prime Minister of India Nominated Union Minister Lok Sabha’s Leader of Opposition (LoP)
Tenure	Six years or until age 65
Duties	Superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India
Removal	CEC: Same manner and on the same grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court. Other EC : Recommendation of the CEC
Post-Tenure Appointment	Eligible
Exclusions	Not for panchayat/municipal elections; handled by State Election Commissions

2. Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is India's central recruitment agency, established by the Constitution.

Union Public Service Commission
Constitutional Provision	Articles 315 to 323
Purpose	Serves as the 'watchdog of merit' in recruitment
Composition	Consists of a chairman and other members appointed by the President, typically 9 to 11 members in total.
Condition	Half of the members must have held office for at least ten years under the Government of India or a state government.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	Members serve for 6 years or until they turn 65, whichever comes first; they can resign by writing to the President.
Duties	Conducts examinations for all-India and Central services, assists states with joint recruitment and advises on recruitment processes and disciplinary matters.
Removal	The President can remove members for insolvency, engaging in outside employment, unfitness, or misbehavior (following a Supreme Court inquiry).
Post-Tenure Appointment	Chairman is not eligible for further employment. Other members can become Chairman of UPSC or a State Public Service Commission, but not for other roles. No member is eligible for a second term
Limitations	Not consulted on reservations, specific group appointments, or temporary positions.

3. State Public Service Commission (SPSC)

Next on the list of Constitutional Bodies in India is the State Public Service Commission which functions similarly to UPSC.

State Public Service Commission
Constitutional Provision	Articles 315 to 323
Purpose	Serves as the 'watchdog of merit' in recruitment
Composition	Chairman and members as determined by the governor
Appointment	By the Governor of the particular state
Tenure	Six years or until age 62, whichever is earlier.
Duties	Conducts state service exams; advises on recruitment, promotions, transfers, and disciplinary matters; handles legal and pension claims.
Removal	By the president for insolvency, misconduct, or unfitness; requires Supreme Court inquiry for misconduct.
Resignation	To the Governor
Post-Tenure Appointment	Chairman ineligible for further government roles; other members can be appointed as chairmen of UPSC or another SPSC but cannot hold other governmental positions.
Limitations	Not consulted on reservations for backward classes or SC/ST claims; the governor can exempt posts from SPSC consultation.

4. Finance Commission of India (FCI)

The Finance Commission is one of the most important constitutional bodies in India which is constituted every fifth year or at such earlier depending on the requirement.

Finance Commission
Constitutional Provision	Quasi judicial body under Article 280
Composition	Consists of a chairman and four members appointed by the President; members are eligible for reappointment.
Appointment	By President
Qualifications	Chairman: Experience in public affairs. Members: 1. Judge or eligible to be appointed as one. 2. Specialized in finance/accounts. 3. Experience in financial matters and administration. 4. Special knowledge of economics.
Tenure	Specified by the President
Functions	Recommendations on: 1. Distribution of net tax proceeds between the Centre and states. 2. Grants-in-aid principles to states. 3. Augmenting state consolidated funds for local bodies. 4. Other matters referred by the President.
Post-Tenure Appointment	Eligible
Reporting	Submits report to the President, who presents it to Parliament

5. Goods and Services Tax Council (GST Council)

GST Council was established by the 101st Amendment Act of 2016 under the new tax regime.

Goods and Services Tax Council
Constitutional Provision	Article 279-A
Composition	Union Finance Minister (Chairperson) Union Minister of State for Revenue or Finance Finance or Taxation Minister from each state, with a Vice-Chairperson elected among them.
Vision	To establish co-operative federalism and set high standards in GST functioning.
Secretariat	New Delhi
Secretary	Union Revenue Secretary serves as the ex-officio Secretary.
Functions	Recommendations on: 1. Taxes and surcharges merging into GST. 2. Goods and services subject to/exempt from GST. 3. Model GST laws and principles. 4. Exemption thresholds. 5. GST rates. 6. Special rates during calamities. 7. Provisions for certain states. 8. Any other GST-related matters.
Decision	Majority decision of three-fourths of weighted votes: Central Government: 1/3 weightage State Governments : 2/3 weightage.
Quorum	One-half of total members for conducting meetings.

6. National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC)

In the list of constitutional bodies in India, the next one is the National Commission for SC, which established by the 89th Amendment.

National Commission for Scheduled Caste
Constitutional Provision	Article 338
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Investigate and monitor constitutional safeguards for SCs. 2. Inquire into complaints regarding deprivation of rights. 3. Advise on socioeconomic development planning for SCs. 4. Present reports to the President. 5. Recommend measures for effective implementation of safeguards. 6. Perform additional functions as specified by the President.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

7. National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST)

Similar to NCSC, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is a constitutional body established under Article 338-A of the Constitution of India.

National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
Constitutional Provision	Article 338-A
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Investigate and monitor constitutional and legal safeguards for STs. 2. Inquire into specific complaints regarding the deprivation of rights of STs. 3. Participate in the planning and evaluation of socioeconomic development of STs. 4. Present reports to the President regarding the effectiveness of safeguards. 5. Recommend measures for the welfare and advancement of STs.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

8. National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)

Among the constitutional bodies in India, the NCBC is dedicated to the welfare and rights of OBCs in India.

National Commission for Backward Classes
Constitutional Provision	Article 338-B
Establishment	Statutory body in 1993 and later granted constitutional status by the 102nd Constitutional Amendment Act in 2018.
Composition	Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members.
Appointment	Appointed by the President
Tenure	3 years
Post-Tenure Appointment	Not eligible for more than two terms.
Functions	1. Examine requests for inclusion in the Central OBC list. 2. Monitor the implementation of welfare schemes for OBCs. 3. Investigate complaints regarding the deprivation of rights and safeguards for OBCs. 4. Present reports to the President on the effectiveness of safeguards and recommend measures for the advancement of OBCs.
Reporting	Annual reports to the President

9. Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities (SOLM)

The Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities is dedicated to safeguarding the rights and interests of linguistic minorities in India.

Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities
Constitutional Provision	Article 350-B
Establishment	Seventh Constitutional Amendment (1956)
Ministry	Ministry of Minority Affairs.
Appointment	Appointed by the President of India.
Headquarters	Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, with regional offices in Belgaum, Chennai, and Kolkata
Composition	Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities (CLM)
Functions	1. Investigate matters related to safeguards for linguistic minorities. 2. Submit reports on implementation status. 3. Monitor through questionnaires, visits, and meetings.
Reporting	Submits reports to the President, who presents them to Parliament and state governments.

10. Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG)

CAG is one of the most powerful constitutional bodies in India and serves as the guardian of the public purse.

Comptroller and Auditor General
Constitutional Provision	Article 148 to Article 151
Appointment	Appointed by the President of India.
Tenure	Six years or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier.
Oath/Affirmation	Must uphold the Constitution and perform duties without fear or favor.
Post-Tenure Appointment	No further government office after term.
Salary	Equal to a Supreme Court judge
Functions	Audits accounts of Union, states, and local authorities; audits expenditures from various funds; certifies tax proceeds; submits reports to President and Governors.
Reporting	Submits reports on appropriation accounts, finance accounts, and public undertakings to the President.
Removal	By the President in the same ground and manner as a judge of the Supreme Court

11. Attorney General of India (AGI)

The Attorney General of India (AGI) is an important constitutional office that serves as the chief legal advisor to the Government of India and is the highest-ranking law officer in the country.

Attorney General of India
Constitutional Provision	Article 76, Article 88, Article 105
Appointment	By the President
Qualification	Must be qualified to be a Supreme Court judge.
Term	No fixed term; holds office during the pleasure of the President.
Remuneration	Not fixed by the Constitution; determined by the President.
Functions	1. Advise the Government of India on legal matters. 2. Perform duties assigned by the President. 3. Discharge functions under the Constitution or laws.
Rights	Has right of audience in all courts; can participate in Parliamentary proceedings (without voting rights).
Removal	Can be removed by the President at any time; no formal procedure specified.

12. Advocate General of the State (AG)

The Advocate General is a key constitutional authority who serves as the chief legal advisor to the state government.

Advocate General
Constitutional Provision	Article 165, Article 177, Article 194
Appointment	Appointed by the Governor of the state
Qualification	Must be a citizen of India; must have held a judicial office for 10 years or been a high court advocate for 10 years
Term	Not fixed; holds office during the pleasure of the Governor
Remuneration	Determined by the Governor; not fixed by the Constitution
Functions	Advise the state government on legal matters Perform other duties assigned by the Governor Discharge functions under the Constitution or other laws
Position	Highest law officer in the state
Removal	Governor can remove the AGl at any time; resignation submitted to the Governor

Constitutional Bodies vs Non Constitutional Bodies

Along with the constitutional bodies in India, several non-constitutional bodies play an equally important role. Here are the major differences among two:

Constitutional Bodies vs Non Constitutional Bodies
Aspect	Constitutional Bodies	Non-Constitutional Bodies
Definition	Established by the Constitution of India	Established by an act of Parliament or through administrative orders
Examples	EC, CAG, NCST, NCSC, etc.	NITI Aayog, NHRC, NIA
Tenure	Defined by the Constitution or specific legislation	Tenure may vary based on the setting up authority
Powers	Powers derived from the Constitution	Powers determined by the enabling legislation or administrative guidelines
Independence	Generally independent; protected by constitutional provisions	Varies; often subject to government control
Accountability	Accountable to Parliament and the Constitution	Accountable to the executive or the body that created them

UPSC Related Articles
NCERTs for UPSC CSE	UPSC Optional Subjects	Indian Civil Service
UPSC Mains Syllabus	UPSC Exam Analysis	UPSC Result 2024