Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Friday, August 15, announced that all state-level competitive examinations will now have a uniform preliminary test fee of Rs 100.

As reported by India Today, the new rule applies to exams conducted by bodies such as 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.

Under the new arrangement, candidates who qualify the prelims stage will not have to pay any fee to appear for the mains examination.

‘Direct benefit to lakhs of youth’

Nitish Kumar, in a post on X, said the decision will directly benefit lakhs of young people in Bihar aspiring for government jobs. He stressed that recruitment has been a key focus of his administration, with several measures introduced over the years to support job seekers.

By standardising the prelim fee and removing the mains fee entirely, Kumar said, the government aims to make the recruitment process more accessible and equitable. The policy ensures no commission or recruitment body charges more than the fixed amount for preliminary tests.

Addressing criticism of high fees

Recruitment exams in Bihar have often faced criticism for inconsistent and high fee structures, especially for multiple stages of selection.

The Chief Minister said this reform reflects his government’s commitment to fairness and equal opportunity.