Lt Gen Gajendra Joshi (Retd) has become the new UKPSC Chairman. Notably, the Uttarakhand Public Service Commission had no permanent chairman since June 2023. Along with him, Dr Hem Chandra Pandey has joined as a member. Moreover, the appointments came on 14 July 2026.
About Lt Gen Gajendra Joshi
Lt Gen Gajendra Joshi hails from Latoli village in Champawat district. He served in the Indian Army for over 38 years. For example, he commanded the prestigious Strike 1 Corps as General Officer Commanding. Also, he served as Commandant of the Infantry School at Mhow. He retired on 30 April 2026.
During his career, he took part in Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka. Similarly, he served in Operation Rakshak in Jammu and Kashmir. Furthermore, he led several counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast. He has received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and Sena Medal.
About Dr Hem Chandra Pandey
Dr Hem Chandra Pandey comes from Tarikhet in Almora district. Currently, he lives in Haldwani. Also, he served as Registrar at the Birla Institute in Bhimtal. He earned an MSc in Physics from Kumaun University. Then, he completed a joint PhD from the University of Konstanz, Germany, and Kumaun University.
He has won several awards, including the DST Young Scientist Award in 2005. Also, he received German DAAD fellowships in 2002 and 2008.
Why the Appointments Matter
UKPSC runs most state-level recruitment exams. However, the lack of a permanent chairman had slowed some major decisions. Therefore, a full-time chairman can speed up recruitment. Notably, aspirants hope for better systems and timely exams.
Appointment Under the Constitution
Under Article 316, the Governor appoints the chairman and members of a state PSC. Their term is six years or until age 62, whichever comes first. Here, Governor Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) approved the appointments.
Why the UKPSC Chairman Appointment Matters for UKPSC
Notably, questions on the Commission and its heads are common. So, remember the chairman’s name, home district and career highlights. Also, revise Article 316. For official updates, also visit the UKPSC website. Next, for a related story, read about UKPSC’s new objection module. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
So, are you preparing for the UKPSC Upper PCS 2026 prelims? Then join our UKPSC 2026 Prelims Test Series for regular practice.