ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): A senate panel on Monday sought a detailed report on the relaxation of the upper age limit for Central Superior Services (CSS) examinations to have more clarity on the issue.
The issue was raised during the meeting of Senate Standing Committee on Delegated Legislation chaired by Senator Nasima Ehsan.
Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) officials briefed the members on the age limit and relaxation rules.
FPSC officials told the committee that the maximum age limit for CSS aspirants is 30 years. However, they said, a two-year relaxation is available under specific circumstances.
The officials clarified that provincial service commission exams remain separate from the CSS.
The panel was also told that reforms were underway to address the low passing rate in the CSS examinations, with English being the subject where most candidates fail.
CSS quota system
The committee was informed that the CSS seats are allocated across open merit, provincial quotas, women, and minorities.
Committee member Bushra Anjum Butt questioned the continuation of this system, stating that the quota law was abolished in 2013.
In response, the Additional Secretary Establishment said there is no constitutional provision for a quota system, while FPSC officials maintained that the government still follows it.
Bushra Butt stressed that the matter should be resolved in a structured and transparent way.
The senate panel also sought a briefing on the possibility of increasing the age limit for provincial-level examinations in Punjab, along with further clarity on the CSS age limit.
Members discussed whether the paper of English essay should be replaced with a general English exam.
