GPSC Holds First Major Class 1 & 2 Exam After Rule Reforms: 97,000 Aspirants Compete for 245 Posts
#Gandhinagar
In a significant step following recent reforms in its examination process, the Gujarat Public Service Commission (GPSC) conducted its preliminary examination for Class 1 and Class 2 services on Sunday. The exam witnessed a massive turnout, with approximately 97,000 aspirants appearing across 21 districts of Gujarat, all competing for just 245 coveted government positions.
This examination marks the first major recruitment drive under the revamped rules implemented by GPSC, aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the selection process. The 245 vacancies include 48 Class 1 posts and 197 Class 2 posts across key government departments such as the General Administration, Home, Revenue, and Panchayat services.
Among the top positions up for grabs are roles such as Deputy Collector, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Mamlatdar, Section Officer, and other prominent administrative and executive roles. Known for their prestige and responsibility, these positions attract tens of thousands of aspirants each year, making the competition one of the toughest in the state.
To ensure a smooth and fair examination process, GPSC established 405 exam centres across major cities including Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Jamnagar, and others. Rajkot alone hosted the exam in 32 centres, accommodating around 7,000 candidates.
Strict guidelines were enforced at the exam venues. Candidates were permitted to carry only transparent water bottles, with all other personal items restricted. The preliminary examination consisted of a single question paper worth 200 marks, designed to test candidates’ general knowledge, aptitude, and awareness of current affairs.
The Class 1 and Class 2 recruitment process is conducted in three stages: the preliminary exam, mains, and a personal interview. Only those who qualify in the preliminary round will move on to the mains, followed by interviews for the final selection. Given the stiff competition, clearing the prelims is considered a major hurdle by many aspirants.
The reforms introduced by GPSC this year focus on streamlining the examination pattern, improving question paper quality, and enhancing the evaluation process. These changes aim to align Gujarat’s civil services recruitment standards with national best practices.
Candidates and experts have welcomed the reforms, noting that the process now appears more robust and transparent. “This is a welcome change. There’s more clarity on the syllabus and evaluation criteria, which helps serious candidates prepare better,” said a candidate appearing in Gandhinagar.
The final results of the preliminary examination are expected in the coming weeks, following which the commission will announce the schedule for the mains examination.
As the GPSC moves forward with its reformed approach to civil service recruitment, this year’s examination is seen as a crucial step in setting the tone for future selections—more streamlined, merit-driven, and transparent.
AM.
