UPSC Expands Exam Network with Three New Centres for Civil Services Prelims 2026
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has taken a significant step to enhance candidate convenience by adding three new examination centres for the Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2026. Bhubaneswar, Kanpur, and Meerut have been incorporated into the network of test locations, increasing the total number of centres across the country from 80 to 83.
Strong Response from Aspirants
According to official figures, approximately 23,000 candidates have opted for these newly established centres when submitting their applications. This substantial uptake is expected to considerably ease the burden on existing examination hubs, which have historically handled large volumes of candidates. The commission believes this expansion will allow more aspirants to appear for the exam in cities closer to their homes, thereby reducing the need for long-distance travel and associated logistical challenges.
UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar emphasized that the primary objective behind this move is to make the examination process more candidate-friendly, accessible, and efficient. He noted that distributing candidates across a wider range of locations will not only mitigate overcrowding at traditional centres but also contribute to a smoother overall experience on exam day. Furthermore, the commission is actively working on making the process more inclusive, particularly for candidates with disabilities.
Centre-wise Application Breakdown
The introduction of these centres has already shown a positive impact on regional distribution. The launch of the Bhubaneswar centre has significantly reduced pressure on the nearby Cuttack centre, attracting 10,656 applications. Similarly, the opening of the Kanpur centre has provided relief to the Lucknow centre, with 6,938 aspirants, largely from western Uttar Pradesh, selecting it as their preferred location. The Meerut centre has received 5,902 applications, which has correspondingly lessened the dependency on the Ghaziabad centre.
Special Arrangements for Divyang Candidates
In a move towards greater inclusivity, UPSC has implemented special provisions to ensure that candidates with disabilities can secure their preferred examination centre. The commission has arranged for additional capacity where necessary to accommodate these requests. For instance, in the Delhi region alone, around 805 candidates with disabilities have been allocated their chosen centre, reflecting the commission’s commitment to an equitable examination environment.
Record Number of Applications
The commission has reported a total of 8,19,372 applications for the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026. In a forward-looking initiative, the application form also sought information from candidates regarding their preferred nearby cities. This data will be instrumental in assessing the future demand for additional examination centres, allowing UPSC to plan its infrastructure more effectively. The commission has reiterated its ongoing commitment to creating a more transparent, accessible, and modern examination system, with continuous efforts aimed at refining the experience for all aspirants.
