Editor,
Recent discussions in The Arunachal Times on recruitment processes in Arunachal Pradesh have brought renewed attention to issues such as examination overlap, delayed results, and unfilled vacancies. From the perspective of an aspirant who has closely followed both Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) and Arunachal Pradesh Staff Selection Board (APSSB) recruitments, I humbly wish to place a practical and state-specific suggestion for consideration.
I believe that the introduction of a structured waiting list system across all APPSC and APSSB recruitments-including technical, ministerial, and teaching posts-could significantly strengthen the recruitment framework of the state.
A Shared Challenge in APPSC and APSSB Recruitments
Whether it is Group-A services under APPSC or Group-C posts under APSSB, a common issue that is repeatedly observed is the emergence of vacancies after the completion of recruitment processes. These vacancies often arise due to: Candidates qualifying for multiple examinations and opting for higher or preferred posts, Non-joining due to medical, documentation, or personal reasons, and
Delays in verification or the issuance of appointment orders.
In many cases, sanctioned posts remain vacant for months or even years, despite the availability of qualified candidates who narrowly miss final selection.
Learning From Broader Administrative Practices
At the national level, recruiting agencies such as UPSC and SSC maintain reserve or waiting lists to address vacancies arising from non-joining or resignations. Similarly, several state commissions have adopted waiting lists that are valid for a fixed period.
Adopting a similar practice in Arunachal Pradesh would align APPSC and APSSB with widely accepted administrative norms and improve overall efficiency.
Applicability Across All Cadres
A waiting list system should not be limited to technical posts alone. Its benefits extend equally to:
UDC, LDC, and MTS recruitments under APSSB, TGT and PGT recruitments in the education sector, and Technical posts such as JE, AE, Surveyor, Junior Estimator, and Draughtsman under APPSC and APSSB.
A waiting list of at least two candidates per post, valid for six months, would ensure that vacancies arising within this period are filled promptly without the need for fresh examinations.
Impact on Aspirants in Arunachal Pradesh
For aspirants in Arunachal Pradesh-many of whom prepare while living away from home in other states or in rented accommodations within the state-repeated examinations involve significant emotional and financial strain.
Age-bound candidates are particularly affected, as delays and unfilled vacancies may permanently deprive them of their final opportunity. A waiting list offers them a fair chance and provides a measure of security that their efforts will not be rendered futile due to procedural gaps.
A Complement to Better Recruitment Planning
It is respectfully submitted that a waiting list mechanism should function alongside:
Timely declaration of examination results, Proper sequencing of higher and lower cadre examinations, and Transparent communication from recruiting bodies.
Together, these measures can help restore and strengthen public confidence in the recruitment systems of APPSC and APSSB.
A Humble Appeal to the Authorities
Through this esteemed daily, I humbly appeal to the State Government, APPSC, and APSSB to consider the introduction of a structured waiting list policy across all recruitments in Arunachal Pradesh.
Such a reform, though administrative in nature, would help ensure optimal utilization of sanctioned posts, reduce recruitment delays, and, most importantly, address the genuine concerns of aspirants who wish to serve the state with dedication and integrity.
Concerned Aspirant