Alterations in UPSC Exam Pattern
In 2015, the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) was made a qualifying paper following considerable pressure from aspirants. There have been ongoing speculations about further changes to the exam pattern.
Has the UPSC Age Limit Been Revised?
The UPSC has not made any modifications to the eligibility criteria for 2021. However, the Baswan Committee had proposed a reduction in the upper age limit of the UPSC exam from the current 32 years. Supporters of this move argue that younger individuals can better handle the rigorous training program and will have more years in service. However, this proposal has faced opposition, especially from those who feel it would disadvantage candidates who have spent many years preparing for the exam, as well as aspirants from rural areas.
Has the Optional Subject Been Eliminated from UPSC?
No, the Optional Subjects continue to be a part of the UPSC Mains exam. There has been a debate about the possible removal of the optional subject papers, as it introduces an element of subjectivity in the exam. Critics argue that the optional subjects should be replaced with more focus on subjects like public administration, polity, and economics, which are more relevant to a civil servant’s job. However, no such change has been implemented so far.
Does UPSC now Provide IAS Answer Key After Prelims?
Many aspirants hope that the UPSC will release the answer key to the prelims exam before the mains exam, instead of after the final results are declared, as per the current practice. This would enable candidates to gauge their performance in the prelims and prepare more effectively for the mains. However, the UPSC has not indicated any such change in the foreseeable future.
It is universally agreed among IAS aspirants that any changes should be implemented keeping in mind the impact on candidates. A transition period of at least a year should be provided to candidates to adapt to the changes, as they invest several years of their prime in preparing for this highly competitive exam.
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