UPSC Prelims 2026 underway across the nation amid tight security
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is conducting the Civil Services Preliminary Examination (CSE Prelims) across the country on Sunday.
This year, a total of 8,19,372 candidates have registered for the UPSC CSE 2026 for approximately 933 vacancies.
The preliminary examination is being conducted in two sessions in an offline OMR-based format. The General Studies Paper I commenced at 9:30 a.m., while the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT) Paper II will be held in the afternoon.
Candidates are required to carry a printed copy of their e-admit card along with a valid photo ID to their designated examination centre.
Tight security arrangements, including CCTV surveillance, jammers, and intensive checking, have been put in place to ensure the smooth and fair conduct of the examination.
Aspirants expressed hope of clearing the examination with good results.
Candidates arriving at Kendriya Vidyalaya in New Delhi’s Pushp Vihar expressed confidence ahead of the examination.
Speaking to IANS, one aspirant said, “I am a bit nervous, but I have prepared well. I hope I clear the exam.”
“There is no fixed limit to preparation; we keep preparing continuously,” another aspirant, attempting the exam for the third time, told IANS.
In Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj, aspirants arrived early at examination centres, where strict security and checking arrangements were in place.
“The arrangements at the centre are well organised. Biometrics and retina scans are being checked before candidates are allowed to enter,” a candidate told IANS.
Another aspirant said, “The arrangements are good. I am feeling confident about the examination. I hope to do well.”
In Madhya Pradesh’s Gwalior, the examination is being conducted at 21 centres, with around 6,652 candidates appearing for the test.
SDM and UPSC Examination Centre In-charge Vinod Singh, speaking to IANS about the arrangements, said, “For the UPSC examination, a total of 21 examination centres have been set up in the district by the UPSC. We have also appointed eight route in-charges for all the centres, who are currently delivering the question papers.”
An aspirant in Gwalior told IANS, “I am very excited about the examination. I hope it goes well.”
