OPSC Civil Services 2025 Notification Draws Criticism Over No OAS Vacancy

Bhubaneswar | 31-12-2025

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) has released the advertisement for the Odisha Civil Services Examination–2025, announcing 314 vacancies across various services. However, the notification has sparked widespread disappointment among aspirants after it emerged that no vacancy has been released for the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) this year.

The examination, popularly known as the OAS exam, is traditionally regarded as one of the most prestigious state-level civil services exams in India. For decades, it has attracted aspirants willing to leave high-paying corporate jobs in pursuit of public service and administrative leadership. This year’s notification, however, has raised serious questions about the future relevance and appeal of the exam.

Only 12 Group A Posts, Rest Group B

According to the official advertisement, only 12 posts under the Odisha Police Service (OPS – Group A) have been notified. All remaining vacancies fall under Group B services, including various allied and subordinate roles.

The absence of OAS and other major Group A services has left many aspirants feeling disillusioned. Candidates argue that without top-tier administrative roles, the civil services examination loses its core purpose and prestige.

“Exam Has Lost Its Charm,” Say Aspirants

Several aspirants expressed frustration, stating that the civil services exam is known for producing elite administrators who directly influence governance and policy. With no OAS recruitment, they believe the exam no longer offers the leadership roles that once defined it.

“People quit stable, well-paid corporate jobs to prepare for OAS. Without OAS vacancies, the motivation itself disappears,” said an aspirant preparing for the exam for over three years.

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Government Faces Criticism

Aspirants have also blamed the state government, alleging poor planning and administrative mismanagement in cadre recruitment. Many questioned how an entire year could pass without the need for new OAS officers, especially when Odisha continues to expand its administrative responsibilities.

Social media platforms and aspirant forums are now filled with criticism, with some candidates demanding transparency and long-term planning in civil services recruitment.

Growing Frustration Among Youth

For many young aspirants, the decision has proved to be a major setback. Years of preparation, financial investment and personal sacrifice now seem uncertain. Some candidates say they may move away from state civil services altogether and instead focus on central services or private-sector careers. Others feel it is more practical to prepare for Group B examinations such as RI and OSSC CGL.

What is Next?

As dissatisfaction grows, aspirants are hoping for official clarification or a possible supplementary notification restoring key Group A services like OAS. Until then, questions remain about whether Odisha’s civil services examination can retain its historic prestige and continue to inspire the state’s brightest minds.