WHERE IS CDS EXAM CONDUCTED?

Background:

The Combined Defense Services Examination (CDS) is a national-level entrance test conducted twice a year by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in India. It is designed to select candidates for admission to the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun; the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala; the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal; and the Officers' Training Academy (OTA), Chennai. The CDS exam is a gateway for young and aspiring individuals to pursue a career in the prestigious armed forces of India.

Exam Centers:

The CDS exam is conducted at various centers across India. UPSC centers are located in a wide range of cities, towns, and regions to ensure that candidates from all parts of the country have convenient access to examination venues. The exact location of exam centers is determined by UPSC and notified to candidates well in advance of the exam date.

Factors Determining Exam Center:

Several factors influence the allocation of exam centers for the CDS exam. These include:

1. Regional Distribution: UPSC aims to ensure fair and equitable distribution of exam centers across different regions of India. Centers are strategically placed to minimize travel time and inconvenience for candidates.

2. Exam Capacity: The number of available examination centers in a particular area is also considered. UPSC selects venues that can accommodate a large number of candidates while maintaining proper social distancing and adhering to COVID-19 protocols.

3. Infrastructure and Amenities: UPSC selects exam centers with adequate infrastructure, including sufficient classrooms, desks, lighting, and ventilation. The centers are also equipped with necessary facilities such as restrooms, drinking water, and parking space.

4. Security Considerations: Security is a paramount concern during the CDS exam. UPSC chooses venues that offer a secure environment, with proper access control, surveillance, and monitoring systems in place to prevent any unauthorized activities or disruptions.

How to Find Your Exam Center:

1. Check UPSC Notification: The official UPSC notification for the CDS exam typically includes a list of exam centers along with their corresponding codes. Candidates can find their designated center based on their application form details.

2. Visit UPSC Website: UPSC maintains a dedicated website where candidates can check their exam center details by entering their application number and other relevant information.

3. Contact UPSC Helpline: Candidates who face difficulties in finding their exam center can contact the UPSC helpline numbers provided in the official notification. UPSC's knowledgeable staff will assist candidates in resolving any queries related to exam centers or other aspects of the CDS process.

Conclusion:

The Combined Defense Services Examination (CDS) is conducted at various centers across India. UPSC strategically selects exam centers considering regional distribution, exam capacity, infrastructure, security, and candidate convenience. Candidates can find their designated exam center by checking the official UPSC notification, visiting the UPSC website, or contacting the UPSC helpline. The CDS exam offers an exciting opportunity for aspiring individuals to embark on a fulfilling and rewarding career in the Indian armed forces.