Your Complete Guide to TNPSC Group VA Services Examination

The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) has announced the Combined Civil Services Examination for Group VA Services. This guide will walk you through every aspect of the examination, from eligibility requirements and application instructions to exam details and preparation tips.

Important Dates

• Notification Release Date: October 17, 2024
• Last Date for Application Submission: November 15, 2024, 11:59 PM
• Correction Window: November 19 - 21, 2024

How to Apply

1. One-Time Registration (OTR): All applicants must first complete the OTR process at TNPSC’s Official Site.
2. Application Submission: After registration, log in and apply for the Group VA Services Examination. Review details carefully as the Application Correction Window opens only for three days after the final submission date.

Examination Structure

The exam consists of two papers:

• Paper I - General Tamil
  • Date: January 4, 2025
  • Time: 09:30 AM to 12:30 PM
  • Format: Descriptive, focusing on Tamil essay writing, translation, comprehension, and official letter writing skills.
• Paper II - General English
  • Date: January 4, 2025
  • Time: 02:30 PM to 05:30 PM
  • Format: Includes English essay writing, precis writing, comprehension, letter writing, and translation.

Both papers require preparation at the degree standard level, with each paper worth 100 marks and a minimum of 60 marks required for all communities to pass.

Eligibility Criteria

1. Age Limit

• General: Should not exceed 35 years as of July 1, 2024.
• Reserved Categories (SC, SC(A), ST): Should not exceed 40 years.

2. Educational Qualification

Degree Requirement: A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.

Experience: A minimum of five years in the role of Junior Assistant or Assistant within Tamil Nadu’s Ministerial or Judicial Services.

3. Language Proficiency

Applicants must demonstrate adequate knowledge of Tamil, verified through official qualifications or by passing the TNPSC’s Tamil language test.

4. Disability

The exam is suitable for persons with specified benchmark disabilities, including low vision, hard of hearing, and locomotor disabilities.

Documents Required

• Proof of Age: SSLC or HSC mark sheet, or other verified documents.
• Educational Certificates: Degree certificate, provisional degree, or mark sheets confirming graduation.
• Service Certificate: Verification of service tenure in the Junior Assistant or Assistant posts.
• Community and Disability Certificates: As applicable, for those seeking age relaxation or reservation benefits.

Exam Rules and Banned Items

Candidates should strictly adhere to the examination hall rules, including prohibitions on mobile phones, electronic devices, books, and bags. Any violation can lead to disqualification, invalidation of the answer sheet, or even debarment.

Preparation Tips

1. Review Official Syllabus: TNPSC has released a syllabus covering essay writing, comprehension, letter drafting, grammar, and translation exercises for both Tamil and English papers.
2. Time Management: With three hours per paper, practice managing time effectively to complete all sections.
3. Mock Tests and Previous Papers: Familiarize yourself with the exam format by taking mock tests and studying previous question papers.

Special Instructions for Exam Day

• Identification: Bring a photocopy of your ID (Aadhaar card, passport, driving license, PAN card, or voter ID) along with your hall ticket.
• Punctuality: Arrive one hour before the scheduled exam time, as gates close 30 minutes prior.
• Additional Verification: Candidates may be frisked at the entrance, so arrive with only essential items and avoid bringing banned items.

Final Thoughts

The TNPSC Group VA Services Exam is a competitive opportunity for qualified candidates in the Tamil Nadu Ministerial Service. Follow the application guidelines, review eligibility requirements, and make the best use of available resources to prepare effectively. For additional information, visit the official TNPSC website.

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