The Civil Services examination that produces dozens of bureaucrats, diplomats, and administrators is likely to experience some of the most awaited reforms. The recommendations were made by the Baswan Committee, which is yet to be made public. However, sources said it has been forwarded to the Department of Personnel of taking a final decision on the same and its consequent implementation. It is widely believed in the official circles that the above two key recommendations may be accepted. 

The areas of contention which are being deliberated include the removal of optional subject paper and changes in the age limit. Previously, the upper age limit was 30 years for general category candidates, 33 years for OBCs and 35 years for SC and ST candidates. Presently it is  32, 35 and 37 respectively

Why was the Baswan Committee needed?

Baswan Committee report takes a comprehensive look at the requirement of IAS Officers over a longer time frame. The committee constituted of four members – B.S. Baswan (Former Director, IIPA), R.K. Barik (Professor, IIPA), Akber Ali (research Officer, IIPA), and Pankaj Kumar Singh (Research Officer, IIPA).

The main reason behind commissioning the report was the shortfall of IAS officers. In March this year, Union Minister Jitendra Singh had informed Lok Sabha that there was a dearth of Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) officers in the country.

What does the student community think?

Many of the students who are presently preparing for the prestigious examination believe that the removal of optional paper will be a turning point. As many students depend upon subjects such as Public Administration, Psychology, and Sociology for fetching mark, this may now turn to a fair game where there is an equal display of knowledge.

“The main aim of UPSC is to find out whether the aspirants are able to handle pressure in varying situations or not. Static syllabus and pattern would not help them in recognizing the same. So I think it’s pretty much justified.” Says Sakshi Sundrani, a UPSC aspirant from Delhi University.

While there are also many students who strongly believe that this decision will adversely impact the students who thoroughly depend upon their core subjects. As an administrator must master at least in one field.

Now all eyes are anxiously on the Union Public Service Commission’s decision.

 

Feature Image Credits: FirstPost

Naimisha