State may introduce prelims for constable recruitment too

In comparison to 7.5 lakh applications for 35,000 posts of constables in 2009,this year the police recruitment board has received as many as 14.70 lakh applications for 40,000 posts.

V C Goel,Board chairman and director general,said,“We did not expect such a huge number of applications. We need better infrastructure and manpower to carry out the recruitment process properly. This seems to be higherst-ever number of applicants received in a police recruitment process.”

Goel said they were planning to introduce a preliminary examination to sort out the best candidates from over 14 lakh applicants and allow them to participate in the final selection process. The board would soon seek the government’s approval for the preliminary exam.

In 2009 recruitment process,the candidates had gone through physical standard test (PST) which included measurement of chest,weight and the height and verification of their testimonials. Those who met the standards had to undergo a physical endurance test (PET) which involved running 10 kilometres in 60 minutes. Those who cleared these two qualifying rounds had to further appear in a medical exam and a written test.

Goel said about 5.5 lakh candidates were called for the physical test in 2009 and 2.55 lakh had attended the final written examination.

For 4000 posts of sub-inspectors,the board this year has received 5.3 lakh applications,Goel said. Those who pass the preliminary exam will have to run 10 km in 60 minutes and pass the medical test before they appear in the final written exam and the group discussion,he said.