Editor,
I am writing to express my concern over the non-negative marking scheme adopted in the Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) competitive examinations and upcoming examinations for various posts in the Arunachal Pradesh University, Pasighat. While this approach might appear beneficial at first glance, it inadvertently puts genuine candidates, who have diligently prepared for the exam, at a disadvantage.
In a competitive exam, accuracy and depth of knowledge should be paramount. However, the absence of negative marking allows candidates to adopt a trial-and-error approach without any repercussions for incorrect answers. For instance, consider a candidate who has only prepared 50 per cent of the syllabus but guesses the answers for the remaining 50 per cent. Without the risk of losing marks for incorrect answers, this candidate can still achieve a high score, potentially outshining a well-prepared candidate who might avoid guessing to prevent errors.
Candidates who have invested significant time and effort in thorough preparation find themselves at an unfair disadvantage compared to those who might exploit the non-negative marking system. This will not only dilute the quality of the selected candidates but also demoralise serious aspirants who expect the examination to reward their hard work and accuracy.
Also, just ask yourself why you don’t see many deadhead candidates qualifying exams like UPSC prelims and SSC/IBPS examinations. It’s because they have adopted negative marking scheme.
Moreover, the integrity of the selection process is compromised. In fields requiring precision and reliability, such as administrative roles and public services, it is crucial that only the most competent candidates are chosen. The non-negative marking scheme risks populating these positions with individuals who may not meet the necessary standards of excellence and knowledge. For example, a candidate who guesses their way through the exam might secure a position over someone who genuinely knows the material, leading to potential inefficiencies and errors in their professional roles.
I urge the APSSB and other examination bodies to reconsider this scheme and reintroduce negative marking to ensure a fair and meritocratic selection process. This change will help in identifying candidates who possess the required knowledge and discourage those who rely on guesswork, ultimately fostering a more competent and motivated workforce.
An aspirant