The Union Public Service Commission is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that the NDA 2020 exam is conducted safely amidst widespread outbreak in the country. This year’s NDA exam is scheduled to be conducted tomorrow i.e. Sunday, September 6, 2020. Unlike previous years, there are no separate exams for NDA 1 & NDA 2. Instead, a common exam will be held tomorrow for NDA 1 & NDA 2, 2020 selections. Instructions about wearing masks and carrying sanitizers to the exam centre have already been circulated through official website upsc.gov.in.
The UPSC does not define any specific dress code for the National Defence Academy exams. However, this year, certain standards have been enforced in the backdrop of the still prevalent COVID-19 outbreak in the country. For instance, wearing a mask to the exam centre has been enforced as a mandatory condition to gain access to the exam hall. The exam conducting authorities will not allow anyone not wearing a mask to enter the exam hall. Wearing a face cover is also accepted if somebody chooses to not wear a mask.
Wearing a mask at all times in the exam hall can influence the choice of clothing in the exam center. Although there is no specific dress code, it is recommended that one dresses modestly. Choice of light clothing is recommended as candidates cannot leave the exam hall before the completion of the total duration. Wearing a mask for a long time often leads to perspiration on the covered part of the face. Therefore, one can carry a handkerchief to wipe the face or hands when within the exam hall.
The UPSC has asked candidates to carry their own hand sanitizers in small transparent bottles for personal use. The bottle must be transparent as per directives issued by the Commission at the official website. In addition, candidates are also recommended that they carry their own water bottles which can be preferably transparent. This is to avoid sharing bottles with other candidates abiding with the rules of social distancing and maintaining personal hygiene.
While dressing appropriately and using safety accessories like a mask are important, one must also abide by the other exam day rules laid down by the UPSC. Maintaining the reporting time is crucial on the exam day. The doors of the exam hall close when 10 minutes are remaining for the exam to start. Any candidate reporting after this point will not be allowed to enter the exam hall. Since there are possibilities of frisking of candidates in addition to temperature checks before entering the exam hall, it is wiser to report to the allocated centre well before time.
Last but the most important point to remember, do not forget to carry the admit card. Along with it, carry government-issued photo identity card viz. Voter Card, Aadhar Card etc. responses on the OMR sheets must be marked in black ballpoint pen only. One must ensure that they are not carrying any banned items such as smartphones, smartwatches and other communication devices. Simple small formal watches are however allowed inside the exam hall.
