‘Centre of Choice’ Safeguard for PwBD Candidates
One of the most significant reforms introduced by UPSC is the removal of any cap on examination centre capacity for PwBD candidates. Under the revised mechanism, PwBD candidates will be assured access to their preferred examination centre, even if the centre has reached its prescribed capacity for other candidates.
Initially, examination centres will be filled jointly by PwBD and non-PwBD candidates. However, once the standard capacity of a centre is exhausted, it will no longer be available for selection by non-PwBD candidates, while PwBD candidates will continue to be allowed to opt for the same centre. UPSC will create additional capacity wherever required to ensure that no PwBD candidate is denied their chosen centre.
Addressing Long-Standing Accessibility Challenges
UPSC Chairman Dr. Ajay Kumar explained that the reform was based on a detailed analysis of examination data from the past five years. The analysis revealed that certain high-demand centres such as Delhi, Cuttack, Patna, and Lucknow often reached capacity at an early stage of the application process, causing difficulties for PwBD candidates.
“With the revised mechanism, every PwBD candidate will be assured of their preferred examination centre, ensuring greater ease and convenience while appearing for UPSC examinations,” Dr. Kumar said, underscoring the Commission’s commitment to accessibility and fairness.
Expansion of Examination Centres Across India
To further reduce congestion at popular locations, UPSC has expanded its network of examination centres for both the Preliminary and Main examinations. Three new centres—Meerut, Kanpur, and Bhubaneswar—have been added for the Preliminary Examination, increasing the total number of prelims centres from 80 to 83.
For the Mains Examination, the Commission has added Bhubaneswar, Srinagar, and Imphal, raising the total number of mains centres from 24 to 27. These additions aim to improve regional access and ease logistical pressure on traditional high-volume centres.
Revamped Online Application Portal
UPSC has also launched a redesigned Online Application Portal for the 2026 examinations. The upgraded platform is intended to simplify the application process while strengthening examination security and integrity across multiple stages.
A key new feature of the portal allows candidates to indicate preferred nearby cities through a dropdown menu, in addition to selecting from notified examination centres. This data will act as a structured survey of candidate preferences and may be used to identify potential locations for future examination centres, wherever feasible.
Technology-Driven Exam Security Measures
The revamped portal integrates technology-enabled photo verification and face recognition tools to strengthen identity verification throughout the examination cycle. These measures aim to reduce impersonation risks and enhance transparency, ensuring that the selection process remains strictly merit-based.
According to UPSC, the adoption of advanced digital tools reflects its broader objective of balancing candidate convenience with the highest standards of examination integrity and fairness.
Part of UPSC’s Centenary Year Reforms
The latest initiatives form part of UPSC’s Centenary Year celebrations and reflect the Commission’s ongoing efforts to modernise its processes in line with contemporary requirements. Dr. Ajay Kumar noted that UPSC has consistently embraced technology to deliver a free, fair, inclusive, and accessible examination system.
