Is the UPSC CSE Optional Subject to Be Removed?

In recent discussions, coaching teachers have speculated that the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) may remove the optional subject in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) in the near future. While no official announcement has been made, there are ongoing internal deliberations that could lead to significant changes in the exam format.

Speculations and Uncertainty

Some coaching institutions are circulating rumors that the UPSC may alter the syllabus in 2024, with changes taking effect in 2025. If this happens, the removal of the optional paper could be one of the proposed changes. However, it's crucial to note that such changes remain under speculation, and there has been no official confirmation.

No Official Decision Yet

According to official sources, the UPSC has not yet made a definitive decision to remove the optional subject. While there is a high likelihood that the UPSC might introduce changes before 2022, it's essential to approach such rumors with caution. The Government of India (GOI) and UPSC do not currently have any proposals to scrap the optional subjects in CSE. All stakeholders, including candidates and institutions, must wait for formal notifications from the UPSC.

Historical Context

During the period of 2012, the UPSC had a plan to remove the optional subjects from the Civil Services Mains Examination. A committee constituted in December 2020 under the chairmanship of the UPSC Chairman provided an alternative to optional papers. The committee's report is expected to be submitted by the end of the month. The primary motive behind this potential change is to discourage professionals and coaching institutions from focusing solely on specific subjects.

Administrative Reforms and Preliminary Examination

UPSC has already made changes to the preliminary examination by removing the optional paper and introducing an aptitude test. Currently, candidates are required to select two optional papers from a list of 26 papers, each composed of four topics. The administrative reform committee, under Virappa Moily, had previously recommended the removal of optional papers in the civil services examination. These recommendations are still pending final implementation by the UPSC.

Final Scheme of Examination

The final scheme of the examination is yet to be announced by the UPSC. However, it is clear that the optional papers are likely to be phased out in the upcoming years. Until UPSC makes an official announcement, rumors and speculations are just that—rumors.