RBI Grade B Exam Criteria: An Analysis of the 60 Criterion
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Grade B exam is considered one of the most prestigious exams in the country, attracting highly qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds such as Engineering, Management, Chartered Accountancy, and Chartered Accounts (CA). The examination's rigorous scrutiny, which includes a stringent qualification criterion of 60%, is a topic of significant interest, particularly regarding its potential for change.
Background and Significance of the 60 Criterion
The 60% criterion is the first level of scrutiny for the RBI Grade B exam. This benchmark is designed to ensure that only the most qualified candidates proceed to the subsequent stages of the examination. As it serves as the initial hurdle, any modification to this criterion must be carefully considered and justified, given its pivotal role.
Factors Limiting Changes to the 60 Criterion
The determination of the minimum qualification standard, such as the 60% criterion, is primarily the responsibility of the employing authority, in this case, the RBI. The Supreme Court of India has provided guidance in the landmark judgment of Siya Ram v. Union of India, 1998 2 SCC 566. This judgment emphasizes that courts should not interfere with the determination of qualifications unless there is an obvious motive to exaggerate the weight given to the interview or any other irrelevant factor.
In the context of the RBI Grade B exam, any reduction in the 60% criterion would likely be welcomed by many aspirants. Conversely, an increase in this criterion would be met with legal challenges. This is illustrated by Article 161 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality of opportunity in matters relating to employment or appointment to any office under the State. Any significant alteration to the qualification criterion, whether it increases or decreases, could invite legal scrutiny and therefore must be handled with utmost caution.
Potential Consequences of Changing the Criterion
The 60% criterion is deeply embedded in the exam’s structure and is strictly adhered to due to its effectiveness in filtering out weaker candidates. In light of the extremely high application-to-post ratio (over 100,000 applications for approximately 150 positions), the criterion has proven to be a reliable filter. Further, any modification could lead to procedural complications, particularly when considering the stringent legal and political ramifications.
Summary of the Decision
Based on the current scenario and the persistently high competition, it is highly unlikely that the 60% criterion will be changed for the 2018 RBI Grade B exam. Any such change would need to be thoroughly evaluated, and the potential consequences of such a decision, both legally and politically, must be carefully weighed.
Thus, the RBI will not be altering the current 60% criterion for the 2018 Grade B exam.
Legal and Constitutional Provisions:
Article 161 of the Indian Constitution: Equal opportunity in employment or appointment to any office under the State.For more insights and updates related to the RBI Grade B exam, follow the latest news and developments.
Abhishek Mishra