Sun Jan 26 05:59:06 IST 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission Needs Overhaul, Says Expert Panel**

Vijayawada, January 26, 2025 – A committee reviewing the Andhra Pradesh Public Service Commission (APPSC) has delivered a scathing assessment, highlighting significant inefficiencies and recommending sweeping reforms. The report, submitted by a panel headed by Special Chief Secretary B. Rajasekhar, points to outdated processes, a lack of transparency, and significant recruitment delays – sometimes stretching two to five years – as major concerns.

These delays, the report states, are causing widespread frustration among candidates, leading to a surge in litigation. The absence of a structured job calendar and a robust IT infrastructure further exacerbates the problems. The current system, involving multiple agencies with overlapping responsibilities, is described as confusing and inefficient.

The panel found that the APPSC lacks a dedicated IT wing to effectively manage the vast amounts of data involved in the recruitment process. This deficiency, the report claims, hinders transparency and creates opportunities for malpractice. Outdated post classifications and a reliance on a 1967 government order further compound the issues.

To address these shortcomings, the committee recommends establishing a dedicated IT wing, implementing an online marking system, and leveraging technology for real-time monitoring during exams. The report also suggests the introduction of a robust grievance redressal system and a standardized “panel year” to streamline the recruitment schedule. Specific recommendations include masking candidate credentials during interviews and randomizing interview boards to enhance transparency. The committee also advocates for reducing reliance on interviews, suggesting they should be avoided for most exams.

The committee’s findings are based on a study of the APPSC’s operations and a comparative analysis of other public service commissions in India, including visits to the UPSC and PSCs in Rajasthan, Kerala, and Bihar. The report’s recommendations, if implemented, aim to significantly improve the efficiency and transparency of the APPSC recruitment process.

Read More