New Guidelines for the UPSC Preliminary Examination 2020

On the eve of the Civil Services Examination 2020, a significant stride towards ensuring a safe, secure, and hygienic environment for over one million aspiring candidates, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has unveiled a robust set of guidelines. These guidelines, meticulously designed to tackle the ongoing health concerns, aim to create a conducive testing environment for all participants. In this article, we delve into the carefully crafted measures that students must adhere to, to successfully navigate the prelims of the UPSC 2020.

Mask Compulsory

The first and foremost directive issued by the UPSC is compulsory mask wearing. All candidates, faculty, and exam center staff must don masks throughout the exam duration. This measure not only adheres to the health and safety protocols set by health authorities but also reinforces a sense of community responsibility among all stakeholders.

Social Distancing Measures

Social distancing is another critical component of the UPSC guidelines. To maintain the recommended safe distance of at least 1.5 meters, each examination center will utilize only one-third of its seating capacity. This strategic approach ensures that all candidates have ample space to sit comfortably, minimizing congestion and potential health risks.

Candidate Capacity Management

Each examination center is required to manage the candidate capacity efficiently. By limiting the number of candidates to one-third of the center's capacity, the UPSC ensures a more organized and less stressful environment for all participants. This measure also helps in maintaining a proper flow of candidates, reducing wait times, and ensuring a more streamlined examination process.

Sanitizer Availability

Prioritizing hygiene, the UPSC has allowed candidates to bring their own transparent sanitizer bottles. While official sanitizers will be available at the examination centers for additional use, carrying personal sanitizer adds another layer of protection for candidates. This feature is particularly appreciated by candidates who value their personal health and hygiene routines.

Admission Requirements

To ensure smooth entry, candidates are advised to bring their photograph ID and admit card. These primary documents are essential for identification and admission to the examination hall. A comprehensive security check will be conducted at the entrance, comprising verifying the admit card against the photograph ID. This process ensures that only legitimate candidates are admitted to the examination.

Entrance Timing

The UPSC has also announced the specific timing for the entrance to the examination centers. For the afternoon shift, the entrance will be closed 10 minutes before the exam commences, i.e., at 2:20 PM. This precautionary measure is designed to manage the influx of candidates and prevent congestion near the examination centers, creating a more controlled and organized environment.

The UPSC's stringent guidelines are a testament to its commitment to providing a fair and safe environment for all candidates. By adhering to these rules, candidates can focus on their preparation and perform to the best of their abilities. As the examination approaches, candidates are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these guidelines and prepare accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful testing experience.