Central Vigilance Commission (CVC)
Kartavya Desk Staff
Source: TOI
Subject: Polity
Context: Shri Praveen Vashista, IPS (Bihar cadre, 1991 batch), has been appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission and took oath on 16 January 2026.
About Central Vigilance Commission (CVC):
What it is?
• The apex integrity and vigilance institution of the Government of India.
• Mandated to promote integrity, transparency and accountability in public administration and to prevent corruption in Central Government organisations.
Established in:
• 1964 as an executive resolution of the Government of India.
• Given statutory status by the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003.
Historical background:
• Originated from the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee (1962–64) on Prevention of Corruption.
• Initially functioned without statutory backing, limiting its authority.
• Became a statutory and independent body in 2003, strengthening its supervisory and advisory role in vigilance administration.
Composition and members:
• Headed by a Central Vigilance Commissioner (Chairperson).
• Assisted by not more than two Vigilance Commissioners (Members).
• Appointed by the President of India on the recommendation of a high-level committee.
• Tenure is four years or up to 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.
Organisational structure:
• Secretariat headed by a Secretary with supporting officers.
• Chief Technical Examiners’ Wing (CTE) to examine technical aspects of works contracts.
• Commissioners for Departmental Inquiries (CDIs) who act as Inquiry Officers in disciplinary proceedings.
• Network of Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) in ministries, departments, PSUs and public sector banks, acting as the extended arm of the CVC.
Jurisdiction:
• Covers All India Services and Group ‘A’ officers of the Central Government.
• Includes senior officials of Central Public Sector Undertakings, Public Sector Banks, RBI, NABARD, SIDBI, LIC, General Insurance Companies, and specified societies and autonomous bodies controlled by the Union Government.
• Exercises superintendence over CBI investigations relating to offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
• Conducts preliminary inquiries on complaints referred by the Lokpal in respect of Group A, B, C and D officials.
Key functions:
• Supervises and coordinates the vigilance machinery across Central Government organisations.
• Inquires or causes inquiry/investigation into corruption complaints within its jurisdiction.
• Tenders vigilance advice to ministries, departments and PSUs.
• Exercises superintendence over the CBI for corruption-related investigations.
• Reviews progress of investigations and pendency of prosecution sanctions under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
• Recommends appointments to senior posts in the CBI and Directorate of Enforcement through statutory committees.
• Acts as the authority for complaints under the Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informers (PIDPI) Resolution, providing whistle-blower protection.