Bihar CM Nitish Kumar Slashes Exam Fees: ₹100 for All Prelims, Mains Free for Job Aspirants

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Independence Day announced a uniform application fee of ₹100 for all preliminary recruitment examinations conducted by state agencies, while declaring that no fee will be charged for mains examinations. Exam reform will provide benefit to lakhs of candidates preparing for competitive exams in Bihar and is being seen as one of the biggest pro-youth measures in recent years.

Previously, application fees for prelims and mains varied widely across recruitment bodies like BPSC, BSSC, often becoming a financial burden for candidates, especially those appearing for multiple exams in a year. With new system, candidates will pay only a nominal ₹100 for the prelims stage, and once qualified, they can sit for the mains for free.

The decision covers major recruitment exams conducted by:

Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC)

Bihar Staff Selection Commission (BSSC)

Bihar Technical Service Commission (BTSC)

Bihar Police Subordinate Services Commission (BPSSC)

Central Constable Selection Board

One of the candidates, Santosh Kumar from Patna said: "This is very big relief for aspirants like me who come from rural background with financially weak background."

Empowering Bihar’s Youth

Highlighting importance of inclusive governance, CM Nitish Kumar said policy was aimed at creating a level playing field for all, particularly economically weaker sections and rural candidates. “The youth of Bihar should not be deprived of opportunities because of financial hurdles,” he said in his Independence Day address.

Wider Political and Social Impact

The announcement comes months before Bihar Assembly elections and is seen as a strategic step to win over the state’s massive youth population, which makes up more than 55% of Bihar’s demographic. Analysts say this measure aligns with state government’s broader push to promote employment, education, and skill development.