Editor,
I wish to draw attention of the chairman, Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC), regarding the recent advertisement for the post of assistant professor.
It has been notified that candidates will be shortlisted for viva voce in a 1:3 ratio, in accordance with the 2018 norms of the University Grants Commission (UGC). While regulatory compliance is important, the method of awarding marks based on academic scores, research qualifications, and teaching experience is adversely affecting many deserving NET/SLET-qualified candidates.
Not every aspirant has had equal access to PhD opportunities or teaching experience. In a small state like ours, research facilities and permanent teaching positions are limited. Many qualified candidates cleared NET/SLET while engaged in other employment due to financial or personal constraints. Penalising them for not having a PhD or prior teaching experience ignores the unequal academic landscape they come from.
Furthermore, disparities in evaluation system add to the injustice. Candidates who completed graduation under the annual system often secured comparatively lower percentages because scoring was stricter. In contrast, those from semester systems frequently obtained higher percentages. Basing shortlisting heavily on percentage marks creates structural disadvantage, rather than assessing true merit.
It is important to note that UGC norms were primarily framed with university-level recruitment and research standards in mind. For undergraduate teaching posts, equal opportunity should be ensured to all NET/SLET-qualified candidates. Restricting the number of candidates for viva solely through academic weightage deprives many competent aspirants of even a fair chance to present themselves. In addition, even the Pasighat university didn’t follow this selection criteria. Then why is the APPSC depriving us?
Instead, a preliminary written examination could be conducted to shortlist candidates objectively. Such a system would provide a level playing field and uphold transparency and fairness in recruitment.
Public service commissions are expected to protect equity and merit. Therefore, I humbly urge the authorities to reconsider the present shortlisting criteria and adopt a more inclusive approach that ensures equal opportunity for all eligible candidates.
NET/SLET holders