NEW DELHI, March 19 (Xinhua) -- The Indian government Tuesday appointed retired Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghose as the first Lokpal of India, officials said.

"The President of India today appointed Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose as chairperson of the Lokpal," a communication issued from Indian President's office said.

Lokpal is an anti-corruption authority or ombudsman which represents public interest in India.

Reports said Ghose's name was finalized and recommended in a selection committee meeting, comprising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and eminent jurist Mukul Rohatgi on Sunday.

The president also appointed eight members -- four judicial and four non-judicial for the Lokpal.