
STAFF SELECTION COMMISSION (SSC)
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Overview
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) is one of the most prominent recruiting bodies under the Government of India. It plays a crucial role in selecting eligible candidates for various Group B (non-gazetted) and Group C (non-technical) posts across different ministries, departments, and subordinate offices of the Central Government.
Introduction
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) operates as an attached office under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).
The commission is headed by a Chairman, supported by two Members, and a Secretary cum Controller of Examinations, whose position is equivalent to that of an Additional Secretary to the Government of India.
The SSC serves as a central recruitment agency that ensures transparency, efficiency, and merit based selection in the recruitment process for various government departments.
Historical Background
The idea of a centralized recruitment agency originated from the 47th Report (1967-68) of the Estimates Committee in the Parliament of India, which recommended the formation of a Service Selection Commission to recruit candidates for lower categories of posts in government offices.
Following this recommendation:
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On 4 November 1975, the Government of India established the Subordinate Services Commission under the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms.
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Later, on 26 September 1977, the commission was renamed as the Staff Selection Commission (SSC).
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The functions and responsibilities of SSC were further redefined by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions through a notification issued on 21 May 1999.
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The new constitution and functions officially came into effect from 1 June 1999.
Since then, SSC has evolved into a major recruiting body that conducts multiple examinations throughout the year for thousands of vacancies across central government departments.
Functions of the Staff Selection Commission
The primary functions of SSC include:
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Conducting examinations for recruitment to Group B and Group C posts in various Ministries and Departments of the Government of India.
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Ensuring fair, transparent, and merit-based selection of candidates.
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Advising the Government on matters related to recruitment policies and procedures.
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Assisting in staff promotions, departmental exams, and service rule revisions where required.
🧾 Major Examination Conducted by SSC
One of the most significant examinations organized by the Staff Selection Commission is the:
SSC Combined Graduate Level (CGL) Examination
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Conducted every year to recruit non-gazetted officers for various Group B and Group C positions in government ministries, departments, and subordinate offices.
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The exam serves as a gateway for candidates aspiring for prestigious government jobs in sectors such as finance, intelligence, administration, audit, and more.
Apart from CGL, SSC also conducts several other exams like:
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SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)
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SSC GD Constable
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SSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff)
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SSC JE (Junior Engineer)
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SSC CPO (Central Police Organization)
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SSC Stenographer Exam
Each of these examinations provides unique opportunities for candidates from different educational backgrounds.
Organizational Structure
The Staff Selection Commission operates under the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and follows a structured administrative setup:
DesignationRole
ChairmanHeads the Commission and oversees recruitment policies
Two MembersAssist in decision-making and examination operations
Secretary cum Controller of ExaminationsSupervises the conduct of exams and manages overall coordination
Key Highlights of SSC
CategoryDetails
Full FormStaff Selection Commission
Founded On4 November 1975
Renamed As SSC26 September 1977
HeadquartersNew Delhi, India
Parent DepartmentDepartment of Personnel and Training (DoPT)
Major ExamCombined Graduate Level (CGL)
PurposeRecruitment for various central government posts
Official Website https://ssc.gov.in
Conclusion
The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) stands as a pillar of trust and transparency in the Indian recruitment system.
By conducting a wide range of competitive examinations every year, SSC offers lakhs of aspirants an opportunity to build a secure and respectable career in the Central Government.
If you aim to serve the nation through civil administrative roles, SSC exams are your gateway to achieving that dream.
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