The Maharashtra government’s proposed move to conduct Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) examinations online has been put on hold for now after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stepped in following widespread objections from aspirants across the state. During a high-level meeting in Mumbai, the Chief Minister suggested that the transition to computer-based examinations should begin only from August 2027, giving candidates and authorities sufficient time to prepare.
Students Raise Concerns Over Online Examination Plan
The controversy began after the MPSC announced that preliminary examinations for Group A, Group B and Group C services would be conducted through an online system. The decision sparked protests from student groups, many of whom argued that candidates from rural and remote areas could face difficulties due to inadequate digital infrastructure and limited access to computer facilities.
Several aspirants also met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis personally and explained why they believed the sudden change could put thousands of candidates at a disadvantage.
Fadnavis Suggests Gradual Rollout From 2027
Taking note of the concerns, Fadnavis convened a meeting with MPSC Chairman Dr. Vivek Bhimanwar, the Chief Secretary and senior officials from the General Administration Department.
During the discussion, the Chief Minister proposed that the shift to computer-based examinations should not be implemented immediately. Instead, he recommended introducing the new system from August 2027, allowing enough time to strengthen infrastructure, train stakeholders and ensure that candidates become familiar with the online format.
Until then, he suggested that recruitment examinations continue under the existing offline pattern.
Transparency and Timely Recruitment Remain Priority
The Chief Minister also stressed that recruitment examinations must continue to be conducted in a transparent, secure and time-bound manner. He said reforms are important, but any transition should be carefully planned to avoid creating difficulties for candidates.
According to the government, the objective is to modernise the examination process while ensuring fairness and maintaining public confidence in the recruitment system.
Government Focuses on Smooth Transition
While appreciating MPSC’s initiative to modernise examinations, Fadnavis said reforms should be implemented in phases rather than abruptly. He maintained that every stakeholder—including students, examination centres and administrative authorities—must receive adequate time to adapt before computer-based examinations become the standard method.
The meeting signals that the Maharashtra government is inclined towards a gradual implementation of online examinations instead of introducing the new system immediately, providing relief to thousands of aspirants who had expressed concerns over the proposal.
