The Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) has postponed the introduction of computer-based test (CBT) for its Group C recruitment exams until July 2027, following weeks of protests by candidates across the state. The decision marks a major change in its policies and provides relief to thousands of people who were worried about the changes to online exams.With the rollback, the Maharashtra Group C Services Combined Preliminary Examination 2026 will now be conducted in the traditional offline OMR mode instead of computerized mode.
MPSC suspends implementation of CBT
The board issued a resolution on July 16 announcing that the CBT system will not be introduced for Group C examinations before July 2027. The decision was taken after endless criticism from the searchers, who said that the existing digital environment was not well prepared for the change.Candidates, especially from rural and remote areas, expressed concern about inadequate computer access, internet connectivity, and familiarity with online exams. A number of supporters have also questioned the transparency of computer-based recruitment tests, citing errors reported in other online tests conducted by various organizations in recent years.
Revised MPSC Group C exam pattern
After the decision, the exam calendar has been changed.
- Preliminary investigation: October 25, 2026 (already scheduled for September 27)
- Main examDate: December 27, 2026
- All services2,619
The revised schedule gives the candidates more time to prepare and ensure that the recruitment process continues through the common tests.
Application deadline will be extended
Along with revising the exam schedule, the board has also increased the required application dates.
- Last date to submit online applicationsDate: July 31, 2026
- Last date for online paymentDate: August 3, 2026
MPSC has stopped paying fees through challan, making online payment the only option available.The board has also ordered people who have already submitted their applications to enter the MPSC portal and choose the place they want to register for the regional exam between July 19 and July 31. Those who do not choose a place within the set time will be given one according to the mailing address mentioned in their application.
Why do critics oppose the CBT approach?
The proposed changes in the computer-based exam led to widespread protests by exam aspirants in Maharashtra.Students said that introducing CBT without promoting technology could create an unequal environment, especially for those from rural areas. He also called for more transparency in online recruitment tests, pointing to past disputes over technical issues, external testing agencies, and quality control.Many applicants concluded that any transition to online testing should be gradual and supported by robust tools, standardized procedures, and a transparent evaluation process.
The government intervenes after the protests
The decision to delay the implementation of CBT was made after a meeting of officials chaired by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The meeting included MPSC Chairman Vivek Bhimanwar, Chief Secretary, and other officials of the General Administration Department.The government’s intervention was prompted by an increasing number of students and applicants who were asking the Commission to conduct offline examinations until appropriate security measures are taken.
Appreciators appreciate moving
Competitive exam aspirants are appreciating the move of the organization. While accepting the return as a big relief, many activists have urged the government to make the decision permanent only after the MPSC has the ability to conduct secure and transparent online exams on its own, without relying heavily on private organizations or complicated registration processes.The latest decision is expected to ease the anxiety among thousands of people preparing for the Group C exams while giving the board more time to put in place a technical and administrative plan.