In a major relief for job aspirants, the Bihar government has announced that all preliminary examinations for state-level recruitments will now carry a uniform fee of just ₹100, while candidates qualifying for mains will not have to pay a single rupee to appear in the next stage.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, unveiling the decision on August 15, said the reform applies across recruitment bodies, including the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC), Bihar Staff Selection Commission, Bihar Technical Service Commission, Bihar Police Subordinate Service Commission, and the Central Constable Selection Board.

“This will directly benefit lakhs of young people aspiring for government jobs in Bihar,” Kumar posted on X, framing the move as a step toward equity and affordability in the hiring process.

The uniform fee structure ends years of inconsistency and high charges in recruitment exams, which critics had flagged as a barrier for economically weaker candidates. The CM said that by standardizing fees and scrapping mains charges, the government intends to make the process “accessible, fair, and encouraging for all.”

The announcement comes against the backdrop of upcoming assembly elections and is expected to strike a chord with Bihar’s vast pool of job-seeking youth.

Part of a broader employment agenda

CM Kumar stressed that recruitment and youth employment have been core priorities of his administration. “We have consistently taken steps to support young job seekers. This decision is one more effort to reduce the financial pressure on families,” he said.

While the new policy eases the monetary burden, aspirants continue to demand systemic improvements, including timely notifications, transparent processes, and faster declaration of results.

Nonetheless, the latest fee reform is being hailed as a crucial measure to widen access and level the playing field for candidates from all sections of society.