Overview

• In a DD News live session, Ajay Kumar said many clear the exam through self-study and that merit is neutral to background or discipline.
• He confirmed no proposals to change age or attempt limits, defended optional papers for testing depth, and explained the final prelims answer key is released before the next exam.
• He highlighted safeguards including anonymous evaluation and moderation across 48 optional subjects, and noted the Puja Khedkar case is before the court.
• Former IAS officer KBS Sidhu defended the exam’s analytical rigor and urged reforms in postings, tenure protection, empanelment transparency, and simulation-based training.
• Former health secretary Shailaja Chandra pressed for testing judgement and human qualities over memorisation, while Amitabh Kant encouraged the UPSC to adopt cutting-edge technology.