Published on November 01 , 2025
Contents
Delhi, India
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is gearing up to revolutionize accessibility in its prestigious Civil Services Examinations (CSE) by introducing screen reader software tailored for visually impaired candidates. This announcement, shared with the Supreme Court amid ongoing petitions for equitable testing, underscores UPSC’s commitment to the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, and National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s inclusivity mandate. As exams approach in early 2026, this tech-driven facility promises to level the playing field, allowing aspirants with low vision or blindness to independently navigate question papers—potentially increasing participation rates among the roughly 1-2% of PwBD candidates who appear annually.
Announcement and Supreme Court Context
- Key Disclosure to the Court: UPSC affirmed in an affidavit to a bench led by Justice Vikram Nath that it will roll out screen reader software once secure infrastructure is ready, without needing rule amendments for the 2025 cycle.
- Petition Background: Stemming from a 2023 plea by visually impaired aspirants highlighting scribe limitations and tech gaps, the court directed UPSC to explore digital aids; updates since May 2025 show steady progress.
- UPSC’s Commitment Quote: “As soon as the feasibility and availability of proper infrastructure/software… is ensured… the Commission will conduct its examinations for visually impaired candidates by providing screen reading software.”
Details of the Screen Reader Facility
- Core Functionality: The software will enable real-time audio conversion of on-screen text, allowing candidates to listen to questions independently during prelims, mains, and interviews—compatible with standard UPSC computer-based prelims and descriptive mains setups.
- Security Measures: UPSC emphasizes encrypted, monitored systems to prevent malpractices, with pilot testing at select centers before full deployment; no impact on exam integrity or timing.
- Technical Rollout: Involves pre-loaded devices or BYOD (bring your own device) options verified for compatibility; training sessions for invigilators to ensure smooth operation.
- Eligibility Scope: Targets candidates with 40% or more visual impairment benchmarked under RPwD Act; self-declaration in application form suffices initially, with medical verification post-selection.
Implementation Timeline and Partnerships
- Progress Milestones: Oral assurance in May 2025; logistical reviews by mid-year; formal letters to state chief secretaries and district authorities in August 2025 for infrastructure readiness by December.
- Collaborative Efforts: Ties with National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) in Dehradun for lab upgrades as dedicated exam venues; Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) committed to funding regional center enhancements.
- Target Launch: Aimed for CSE 2026 prelims (May-June), with beta trials in mock exams; states directed to prioritize 50+ centers nationwide for seamless access.
- Challenges Addressed: Overcoming urban-rural divides by mandating facilities in all districts, ensuring no travel burdens for remote aspirants.
Existing UPSC Facilities for Visually Impaired Candidates
- Compensatory Time: 20 minutes extra per hour of exam duration (e.g., 40 minutes for 2-hour prelims), applicable across all stages to account for reading speeds.
- Scribe and Reader Options: Provision for a scribe (non-technical, verified) or reader during mains; candidates can opt in application, with UPSC providing if needed—no extra cost.
- Question Paper Formats: Braille-script papers on request; large-print versions (18-24 pt font) for low-vision users; audio aids in select pilots.
- Application and Verification: PwBD certificate upload mandatory; categories include blindness/low vision under VH (Visually Handicapped); interview accommodations like extended breaks.
- Reservation Benefits: 4% horizontal quota across services, with visually impaired eligible for roles like IRS, IFS (non-field), and DANICS.
