Praveen Vashista Appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in Central Vigilance Commission
In a significant appointment to India’s apex anti-corruption body, Shri Praveen Vashista has been appointed as a Vigilance Commissioner in the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) . The President of India approved the appointment via a warrant dated December 12, 2025 , under Section 4(1) of the Central Vigilance Commission Act, 2003 . Shri Vashista assumed charge after making and subscribing to the oath of office on January 16, 2026 , strengthening the institutional framework for vigilance and corruption prevention.
Oath-Taking and Statutory Procedure
The swearing-in ceremony was conducted in accordance with the statutory process outlined in the CVC Act. Shri Vashista took the oath before the Central Vigilance Commissioner , who was duly authorized by the President under Section 5(3) of the Act. The event was attended by senior officials from key agencies including the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the CVC itself, underscoring the inter-agency coordination in vigilance administration.
Professional Background of the New Vigilance Commissioner
Shri Praveen Vashista is an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer of the Bihar cadre from the 1991 batch . He brings over three decades of extensive experience in policing, internal security, and investigation. His career includes significant tenures in both state and central governments:
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State Postings: He served as Inspector General of the Economic Offences Wing and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Bihar. Earlier, as Superintendent of Police, he managed law and order in sensitive districts like Ranchi, Dumka, and Garhwa .
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Central Deputation: He has held crucial positions in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as Superintendent of Police and Deputy Inspector General, handling complex investigations. At the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) , his roles included Joint Secretary, Additional Secretary, and Special Secretary (Internal Security) , involving policy formulation and operational oversight on national security matters.
Role, Tenure, and Significance of the Appointment
The Central Vigilance Commission is a statutory body established under the CVC Act, 2003. It is composed of a Central Vigilance Commissioner and two Vigilance Commissioners . A Vigilance Commissioner plays a critical role in supervising vigilance administration and advising on corruption-related matters across central government departments and public sector undertakings. As per the Act, the tenure of the office is four years or until the incumbent attains the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier . This appointment ensures continuity and brings seasoned investigative and security expertise to the Commission’s oversight functions.
Exam-Focused Key Points:
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Appointment: Shri Praveen Vashista (1991-batch IPS, Bihar cadre) appointed as Vigilance Commissioner in the CVC.
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Legal Basis: Appointment made by the President of India under Section 4(1) of the CVC Act, 2003 .
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Oath: Administered on January 16, 2026 , under Section 5(3) of the Act.
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Month: Current Affairs - January 17, 2026
Category: Governance-Polity