Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Explained

By YESPYQ · Updated July 2026 · 4 min read
Quick answer

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the apex vigilance institution in India, created in 1964 on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee and given statutory status by the CVC Act, 2003.

The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is the apex vigilance institution in India, created in 1964 on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee and given statutory status by the CVC Act, 2003.

Mandate

The CVC advises and guides central government agencies on vigilance matters and monitors corruption-related issues in the central government.

Composition

It is a multi-member body consisting of a Central Vigilance Commissioner and Vigilance Commissioners, appointed by the President.

Why it matters for UPSC

The CVC's origin (Santhanam Committee), its statutory status and its anti-corruption role are testable Polity facts.

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Frequently asked questions

On whose recommendation was the CVC set up?

The Santhanam Committee's.

Is the CVC a statutory body?

Yes. It was given statutory status by the CVC Act, 2003.