KEA to hold single exam for multiple departmental posts in Karnataka
The Karnataka Examination Authority will conduct a common test for 5,431 vacancies across 33 departments using a new preference-based system.
The Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) has started the application process for 5,431 vacancies for First Division Assistant (FDA), Second Division Assistant (SDA), and equivalent roles. According to The Hindu, the authority will now hold one common examination for various posts across 33 departments that share similar educational requirements.
KEA Executive Director H. Prasanna said the authority will conduct this unified test following a State government decision to recognise the KEA as a recruitment agency. Previously, departments issued separate notifications and held individual exams for similar roles, which KEA Executive Director H.
Prasanna said placed a financial burden on candidates.
Under the new system, applicants can apply for multiple departments using one application and one fee. The KEA has also developed software that automatically carries forward details for candidates who previously applied for roles such as Village Administrative Officer (VAO), Land Surveyor, Agriculture Officer, and Assistant Agriculture Officer.
The recruitment will follow a merit-based counselling process similar to professional course admissions. Candidates must list their preferred departments and posts in order of priority, and posts will be allotted based on marks obtained.
A mock allotment result will be released first, allowing candidates to rearrange their preferences before provisional and final selection lists are published. This method ensures each candidate is allotted only one post, aiming to prevent the delays caused by candidates selecting multiple roles under the previous system.