The Jharkhand government has announced a new strategy for conducting Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examinations, with a focus on strengthening transparency, curbing malpractice and eliminating the role of examination mafias.
According to the state government, work on the new system has already begun. Under the proposed strategy, if the number of candidates exceeds 50,000, the examination process will be conducted in multiple stages, including prelims and mains.
The government said the exams could be conducted in three parts with three separate question papers, with the papers randomly colour-coded to minimise the risk of malpractice.
The question paper for the examination would be decided at around 5 am on the day of the exam, a measure the government said would help eliminate the possibility of the paper reaching exam mafias in advance.
The government is also planning to conduct the examinations in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode at designated computer centres. It said two centres have already been blacklisted as part of efforts to ensure the integrity of the examination process.
However, if the number of candidates appearing for an examination is too high, the CBT format may not be feasible, the Jharkhand government said.
The government said the reforms would make it difficult for candidates to rely on examination mafias or pay money to secure selection. “Children who think they can pay mafia and get away won’t be possible,” the government said, adding that the new system would ensure that only hardworking candidates get through.
The government also said it would focus on preventing aspirants from being misled and ensuring greater transparency in the recruitment process. A grievance redressal mechanism is also being planned, under which candidates can submit their concerns to the examination authorities. The government said grievances would be addressed within a week.
The proposed reforms come amid heightened concerns among students over the conduct of competitive examinations in Jharkhand. Earlier in the day, the Jharkhand government agreed to cancel the 14th Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) examination following talks with protesting students. However, the students said that they will continue to protest as they remain firm on their CBI probe demand.