CENTRAL VIGILANCE COMMISSION (CVC)

News: Shri Praveen Vashista, IPS has been appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission and took oath on 16 January 2026

Central Vigilance Commission (CVC):

• Established in: 1964 as an executive resolution of the Government of India.
• Given statutory status by the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003
• The apex integrity and vigilance institution of the Government of India.
• Mandated to promote integrity, transparency and accountability in public administration
• Prevent corruption in Central Government organisations
• Originated from the recommendations of the Santhanam Committee (1962–64) on Prevention of Corruption.

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

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.

Functions:

• Inquires or causes inquiry/investigation into corruption complaints within its jurisdiction.
• Tenders vigilance advice to ministries, departments and PSUs.
• Supervises and coordinates the vigilance machinery across Central Government organisations.
• Acts as the authority for complaints under the Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Informers (PIDPI) Resolution, providing whistle-blower protection.
• 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.
• Exercises superintendence over the CBI for corruption-related investigations.