MPSC examination format draws criticism

There will be six compulsory papers,two in languages (descriptive format) and four General Studies (GS) papers (MCQ format). It has also been made mandatory for candidates to pass in each of the four papers,with 45 per cent marks for open category students and 40 per cent for those in reserved category.

Many trainers said the MCQ format could affect the quality of candidates coming into the state administration. “Though MPSC needs to be congratulated for the radical changes it had brought in lately,the MCQ format for mains examination is simply dangerous. For an administrative official,it is necessary to have analytical ability and in-depth understanding over complex issues. In the MCQ system,one has to chose an answer from the given options,which is not the case when an administrator is out in the field handling an issue. He will have to come up with a solution himself and there’s not the luxury of choosing from the given options.” says Avinash Darmadhikari,founder of Pune-based Chanakya Mandal.

Sachin Kadam of Prithvi Institute said the format could give rise to occurances of mass copying during examinations. “The MCQ system is appropriate for clerical posts and nor for administration,where opinion,in-depth understanding and analytical mindset are the key skills. The format also opens possibility of mass copying like those alleged in some recent MPSC examinations with the same format.”

Aspirants,however,have mixed feelings about the change. While many welcomed the MCQ format,others felt the 2:1 negative marking system would make the examination tough. A few others are also unhappy over the removal of optional subjects. “In the old syllabus,agriculture was an optional subject with 400 marks; but now little importance is given for agriculture,which is an important aspect of our economy and way of living,” says Sudhir Sonawale,an agriculture graduate.

MPSC spokesperson Chandrashekhar Pawar said the commission had invited feedback from people on the new format. It would take suggestions into consideration and might make some changes if felt necessary,he added.