Candidates who took CSAT in 2011 to get another chance in 2015

In a bid to end the ongoing agitation against the Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT), the Government on Monday said the English comprehension skills component of Paper II in the Civil Services (Prelims) should not be included for gradation or merit. Also, an additional attempt should be given to those who took CSAT in 2011 in the Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2015.

This is the opinion of the Government, Minister of State for Personnel Jitender Singh said in the Lok Sabha after the CSAT issue disrupted proceedings in the Rajya Sabha again. When some members asked if CSAT had been scrapped, Mr. Singh said he had nothing more to say.

Sources said the Government’s opinion was based on consultations with Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) representatives and the three-member Committee set up to review the CSE pattern. With the Government revealing its hand, the Department of Personnel and Training is expected to make necessary changes in the examination rules and notify them at the earliest. The UPSC will then operationalise the amended rules, sources said.

Earlier, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned as agitated opposition members demanded a time-bound solution. Raising the matter during Zero Hour, Sharad Yadav (JD-U) – who has submitted a privilege notice against Mr. Singh -- accused the Government of going back on its promise to resolve the issue expeditiously. Others raised the issue of the declaration of the UPSC examination date and sought a “direction’’ from the Chair to the government. Intervening, Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Prakash Javadekar said: “ We are sorting it out and as soon as it is done, we will let you know.’’ Dissatisfied with his reply, SP and JD-U members trooped into the Well of the House; forcing an adjournment of the House.