State PSCs unanimous on CBRT, uniform pay scales

The National Conference of chairpersons of state public service commissions has arrived at consensus on introduction of online examination system CBRT (Computer Based Recruitment Tests) and raising the retirement age and uniformity in pay scales and perks of chairpersons and members of UPSC and state PSCs.
The conference which concluded here today elected K S Tomar, Chairman Himachal PSC as chairman of standing committee of state PSC chairpersons and authorised him to take up these issues with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Introduction of online examination system/Computer Based Recruitment Tests was discussed in detail and consensus emerged on the CBRT, an online test for selection of candidates for recruitment by various State service candidates in a phased manner, as adhering to IT reforms and keeping pace with changing trends was inevitable," Tomar said.

The members were unanimous that the retirement age of State Commission members be raised from 62 to 65 years and there should be Uniformity in salary, perks and other incentives and facilities provided to members.
The conference also sought financial autonomy for PSCs and Constitutional protection on the pattern of Supreme Court and High Court Judges to check political interference by State Governments in functioning of PSCs and he would also take up this matter with Prime minister, Tomar said.
The UPSC chairman Deepak Gupta and the Chairperson of all the PSC agreed to introduce new system in a phased manner after creating suitable infrastructures which will protect the secrecy and sanctity of various written competition examinations.

The UPSC had introduced CBRT/Online test as a Pilot Project in 2011 and conducted 22 online tests in nine cities and "with technological advancements, in the field of Hardware, Networking, internet speed etc., the possibility of conducting CBRT in normal examinations would also be explored," Deepak Gupta informed state PSC chairpersons.
Regarding the various interim orders being passed by High Courts/ Administrative tribunals in favour of the candidates who fail to qualify for interviews, Maharashtra PSC circulated a paper to Chairpersons.