UPSC Mains Exam: Over 8 Lakh Aspirants Set to Appear

On Friday, more than 8 lakh candidates will take the UPSC Mains examination, the second stage in the recruitment process for central government services and posts. The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) conducts this exam annually, and it is a critical step for those aspiring to join civil services.

Entry Requirements: What to Bring and What to Avoid

Candidates must carry a printed copy of their e-Admit Card to the exam venue. Without it, they won’t be allowed to enter. Since mobile phones and electronic devices are prohibited, candidates should ensure they have a hard copy, as digital versions won’t be accepted.

List of Banned Items

Several items are strictly prohibited from being brought into the exam hall:

• Electronic Devices: Mobile phones, smartwatches, cameras, Bluetooth devices, and storage media like pen drives are banned. Even if these devices are switched off, candidates won’t be permitted to bring them inside.
• Books and Bags: Personal belongings such as books and bags are prohibited. Candidates should bring only essential items like their e-admit card, pens, pencils, photo ID, and self-photographs as per the instructions.
• Incendiary Items: Objects like matchboxes or cigarette lighters are forbidden for safety reasons.

Warning on Valuables

Candidates are advised not to bring any valuable items to the exam venue, as the UPSC will not take responsibility for their safety.

Rules for Personality Tests

The same restrictions on banned items will apply during the personality tests (interviews) that follow the Mains examination. Violating these rules can lead to severe penalties, including disqualification from the exam, being banned from future UPSC exams, or even having a police complaint filed against the candidate.

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Timely Arrival Is Crucial

Candidates are strongly encouraged to reach the exam venue well in advance. The entry gates will close 30 minutes before the start of the examination session. Once the doors are closed, latecomers will not be allowed to sit for the exam.