Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Public Service Commission (UPPSC) is all set to conduct the highly anticipated preliminary examination for the posts of Review Officer (RO) and Assistant Review Officer (ARO) on July 27, 2023. The examination will be held across 2,382 centers spread across the state, with a notable inclusion of remote areas that have raised concerns among candidates due to long travel distances.
Over 10 Lakh Applicants: Large-Scale Administrative Set-up
A record 10,76,000 candidates have applied for a total of 411 posts under the UPPSC RO ARO 2023 recruitment drive. These posts include various administrative roles such as Deputy Collector, Assistant Review Officer, and Assistant Registrar. Given the large number of applicants, the UPPSC has set up 2,382 exam centers, with 106 centers located in Prayagraj.
Examination Schedule and Timing
The examination will take place in a single shift, from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. However, due to the scale of the examination and logistical concerns, candidates are required to reach their designated centers by 8:00 AM, with entry closing promptly by 8:45 AM.
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Transportation Issues for Remote Centers
One of the significant challenges faced by candidates this year is the allocation of exam centers that are located 20 to 30 kilometers away from the city. In particular, several male candidates from other divisions and female candidates from districts in Raigarh have been assigned centers in Prayagraj, which are often in remote areas. This shift in the exam center locations has raised concerns about limited transportation options, especially in the early morning hours.
Candidates may face challenges in reaching the centers on time due to the limited availability of taxis and public transport. This issue has been further amplified by the absence of examination centers in major educational institutions, which could have alleviated the transportation woes.
Heightened Security and Strict Guidelines
Following the cancellation of the exam in 2024 due to a paper leak, the UPPSC is introducing stringent security measures for the upcoming exam. In line with a new policy against cheating and malpractices, candidates caught indulging in cheating or fraudulent activities could face penalties including life imprisonment and a fine of up to one crore rupees. The commission aims to ensure a transparent and fair examination process and maintain the integrity of the recruitment.
New Examination Centers Established in Universities
This year, the UPPSC has expanded the list of exam centers, with Rajarshi Tandon Open University and Professor Rajendra Singh Rajju Bhaiya State University being designated as new exam centers. These institutions will host up to 480 candidates each, aiming to accommodate the large number of applicants. However, some centers located in Manauri and Bahadurpur are located far from the city center, causing potential inconvenience for candidates. To mitigate this, the administration has arranged for road transport services to help candidates reach these centers.
What Candidates Should Keep in Mind
Candidates are advised to check their examination centers carefully and plan their journey in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. They are reminded to follow all instructions provided by the UPPSC regarding COVID-19 protocols, valid ID proofs, and prohibited items in the exam halls.
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