ESB to Restructure Recruitment System: Only 4 Combined Exams Instead of 30
The Madhya Pradesh Employee Selection Board (ESB) is planning a major reform in the recruitment process. Instead of organizing around 30 different exams annually, ESB has proposed conducting just four combined examinations for various equivalent posts across departments. This move is expected to save both time and cost and reduce the burden on candidates.
Proposal Submitted to Government
ESB has submitted a proposal to the government to merge 30 types of recruitment exams into four broad categories. Suggestions have also been invited from different departments. In 2025, recruitment is being conducted for approximately 25,472 posts across departments.
The Four Proposed Combined Exams
- Combined Graduate Level Exam – For all Group-C level posts
- Combined Higher Secondary Level Exam – For posts requiring 12th pass qualification
- Technical Posts Exam – For posts requiring engineering, ITI, or technical qualifications
- Teacher Eligibility Test – For primary, secondary, and higher secondary teachers
Choice Filling During Application
Though educational qualification and age criteria may vary across departments, a common paper will be set. Candidates will fill their choice of department or post during the application process. A single merit list will be created based on performance and preferences.
Benefits of the New System
- Single exam can qualify candidates for multiple departments.
- No need for repeated applications and exams for similar posts.
- Saves time, money, and reduces stress for candidates.
- Faster and more transparent recruitment process.
- Fair appointments based on a unified merit list.
Proposed Exam Schedule (2025–2026)
- Excise Constable Recruitment Exam – August 2025
- Primary Teacher Selection Exam – August–September 2025
- Group-02 Subgroup-03 Exam – October 2025
- Group-01 Subgroup-02 Exam – October 2025
- Public Health & Medical Education Department – September 2025
- Group-02 Subgroup-04 Exam – November 2025
- Forest Guard, Jail Warder Exam – November 2025
- Group-03 Sub Engineer Exam – January 2026
- ITI Training Officer Exam – February 2026
- Group-02 Subgroup-02 Exam – March 2026
- Subedar, Stenographer, Assistant Sub Inspector Exam – April 2026
- Police Constable (GD) Recruitment Exam – April 2026
- ASI (Computer) & Head Constable (Computer) Exam – May 2026
What ESB Officials Say
ESB Director Saket Malviya stated that a proposal has been sent to the government to conduct only four combined exams for equivalent posts in the same group. If approved, this system will replace the current 30-exam structure with just four tests annually.