Editor,
Through the columns of your esteemed newspaper, I wish to draw the attention of the Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) towards a significant issue faced by aspirants during the last Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Combined Competitive Examination (APPSCCE) 2020.
The CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) paper, which requires consistent time management, proved challenging for the candidates due to the absence of wall clocks in many exam centres. More than 20,000 aspirants appeared for the examination, yet less than 5,000 could clear the CSAT paper. While the new syllabus has undoubtedly played a role, the inability to effectively track time during the exam because of lack of wall clock compounded the problem.
Time management is crucial during competitive examinations, and the lack of wall clocks put candidates at a significant disadvantage. Candidates should have the basic facility of a wall clock in every classroom at every exam centre.
If providing wall clocks is not feasible for the APPSC, I request the commission to allow candidates to carry analog wristwatches. Since digital watches are often restricted to prevent malpractice, analog wristwatches can serve as a simple and secure alternative to help candidates manage their time efficiently.
With a new, dedicated, and receptive team in the commission, I believe this matter will be resolved by the commission on an urgent basis.
An aspirant