The government on 4 February 2026 told the Lok Sabha that the rules governing the Civil Services Examination (CSE) are part of a dynamic and evolving framework, with periodic reforms and remedial measures undertaken to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants
Government’s Response on Civil Services Rules and Exemptions
In a written reply in Parliament, Union Minister of State for Personnel Jitendra Singh responded to a question on whether candidates from Ladakh will be considered for an exemption from the Indian language qualifying paper in the UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination. Singh explained that the Civil Services Examination is conducted annually by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) under rules notified by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT). The government regularly reviews these rules to promote fairness and equal opportunity among aspirants nationwide.
Existing Language Exemptions for Certain States
Under the current framework, Paper A on Indian Language is not compulsory for candidates who hail from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Sikkim. These exemptions have been part of the policy to accommodate aspirants from regions where certain Indian languages may not be widely used or accessible. Singh clarified that while the rules continue to evolve, no decision has been announced yet to extend a similar exemption for candidates from Ladakh. The government continues to monitor and consider reforms to maintain equity in civil services recruitment.
Civil Services Examination: Overview
The Civil Services Examination is held every year in three stages — Preliminary, Main, and Interview — to recruit officers into central services including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and other allied services. The process emphasises both merit and comprehensive assessment of knowledge, skills, and aptitude As the UPSC and DoPT continue to refine examination rules, aspirants and stakeholders await any formal announcements on further changes or exemptions that may be introduced in future CSE cycles ded?