UPSC 2010 New Pattern - "Rumors or Truth" By Srikant Bhagat

What is in Air?
That Union Public Service Commission is going to change the whole examination
process. the Preliminary examination will be an Aptitude Test. There will not be any
optional papers in PT. In Main Examination there will be exclusion of subjects which
are not relevant to Civil Service.

What is the BACKGROUND?

Civil Service Examination pattern is based on the requirement of Administration.
Which should be modified with changing context of society.

Different committees and commissions have recommended reform in the pattern.

• Y.K. Alagh committee recommended in 2001 that two optional should be

done away with. It suggested introduction of Mathematical Aptitude along
with Psychological test.
• P.C. Hota committee wanted the overall changes should be introduced to
examination pattern and also eligibility criteria especially the Age.
• Administrative Reform Commission (2nd) also recommended introduction of
Aptitude test based examination. It wanted that parity should be brought in
examination and Public Administration should be given central place with a
National Institute of Public Administration for providing training to candidates
for Civil Service.

Why is it a hot issue today?

D.P. Agrwal, the present chairman of UPSC commented that UPSC has sent
recommendation to introduce Aptitude test in PT, on 12th November 2009 at a
function of UPSC.

Will it be applied?
It depends on government. The final decision is taken by the Union Government. If it
accepts the recommendation then it will be applied. Therefore it may not be applied.

If change occurs, What will be the pattern?

In case of change, PT will be based on Aptitude Test and optional paper will not be
there in Preliminary examination.

What is an Aptitude Test?

A test designed to assess the ability of the candidate including mental alertness, power
of assimilation, clear and logical expression, balanced judgement, ability to lead
coordinate and guide etc.

It will include:

Quantitative Aptitude
Data Implementation & Sufficiency
Verbal and non verbal reasoning
Verbal ability
Reading ability
Comprehension
Awareness of science, current affairs
Awareness of Administration

It is a type of Psychometric Test and will also be used to test the personality of the
candidate.

About Author: Mr. Srikant Bhagat is a renowned faculty of Public Administration at

Discovery IAS, Delhi. He is an excellent teacher, keen observer of the exam process,
an unbiased critic, reputed author and a sincere & responsible guide. He is having
more than 12 years of experience in UPSC, IAS, Civil Services field. His depth of
understanding and clarity of views and analysis can help you, guide your energy in
right direction in the process of your preparations.

E-mail: srikant@upscportal.com
Mobile: 9210571095 only Wednesday 6 to 9 PM (IST)