NE NEWS SERVICE
NEW DELHI, DEC 12
In a landmark step to strengthen accessibility and fairness in national examinations, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has introduced a ‘Centre of Choice’ facility for all Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD) candidates. The move aims to eliminate the long-standing challenges faced by PwBD aspirants who are often forced to travel to distant cities due to early closure of popular exam centres.
- Ensures Fair, Stress-Free Exam Experience for Candidates with Benchmark Disabilities
- Priority Allotment + Extra Capacity = No PwBD Candidate Denied Their Preferred Centre
Announcing the initiative, Ajay Kumar, Chairman, UPSC, said, “After analysing examination centre data of the last five years, we observed that certain centres such as Delhi, Cuttack, Patna, Lucknow and others reach their capacity ceiling very early due to the high volume of applicants. This creates challenges for PwBD candidates, who are then compelled to opt for centres that may not be convenient for them. I am pleased that, with this decision, every PwBD candidate will now be assured of their preferred centre, ensuring maximum convenience and ease while appearing for UPSC examinations.”
How UPSC Will Ensure No PwBD Candidate Is Denied Their Preferred Centre:
- Existing capacity at each exam centre will first be shared by both PwBD and non-PwBD applicants.
- Once a centre reaches full capacity, it will be closed only for non-PwBD candidates.
- PwBD candidates will continue to choose that centre, even after capacity is reached.
- UPSC will create additional capacity to accommodate every PwBD candidate selecting that centre.
The initiative aims to provide dignity, convenience and equal opportunity to thousands of UPSC aspirants with disabilities — reinforcing the Commission’s commitment to inclusive and barrier-free examinations.
