Apart from the mandatory guidelines, only those examination centres which are outside the containment zone would be allowed to function. Staff and examinees from containment zones will not be permitted. “Such examinees shall be given an opportunity to undertake the examination through other means or the universities, educational institutions, agency may consider appropriate measures in this regard,” the guidelines stated.

Universities, educational institutions and examination conducting authorities may plan out the examination schedule in a staggered manner so as to avoid overcrowding at any examination centre on any day. Exam functionaries and examinees may submit a self-declaration about their health status at the time of entering the centre.

Masks must for candidates taking UPSC prelims on Oct 4

Wearing masks or face covers is mandatory for candidates appearing for the civil services (preliminary) examination scheduled for October 4, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has said. Candidates can also bring their own hand sanitizers in transparent bottles, it said. The candidates also have to follow COVID-19 norms of ‘social distancing’ as well as ‘personal hygiene’ inside the examination halls/rooms as well as in the premises of the venue, it said. This year’s preliminary test was earlier scheduled on May 31.