UPSC to Introduce Screen Reader Software for Visually Impaired Candidates: Supreme Court Informed
New Delhi: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has informed the Supreme Court of India that it will soon introduce screen reader software to assist visually impaired candidates appearing for its competitive examinations, including the Civil Services Examination.
According to Union Public Service Commission, the feature will be implemented from the next examination cycle, once all technical, infrastructural, and security preparations are completed across examination centers in India.
UPSC’s Plan to Ensure Accessibility for All
In an affidavit submitted to the Supreme Court, the Commission confirmed that it had decided in principle to adopt screen reader technology to provide equal opportunities for blind and low-vision candidates. However, it added that the necessary infrastructure is still being developed.
The affidavit was filed in response to a petition by Mission Accessibility, an NGO represented by advocate Sanchit Ain, highlighting the lack of equal access for visually impaired aspirants in Union Public Service Commission exams.
Supreme Court’s Observations
A bench of Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta heard the matter. The Court sought clarification on how soon UPSC could roll out the new system and stressed that the facility should be available at all centers, so candidates don’t have to travel long distances.
The UPSC’s counsel informed the Court that the screen reader facility is expected to be available from next year’s examination session.
Steps Taken by UPSC
The Commission clarified that it does not own dedicated exam centers and relies on state governments, district administrations, schools, and colleges to conduct exams. To enable the new system, UPSC has:
- Sent directives to District Collectors and Chief Secretaries to make screen reader facilities available.
- Conducted video conferences with local exam coordinators to discuss software availability, digital paper security, and candidate requirements.
- Written to the National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Visual Disabilities (NIEPVD) in Dehradun and its regional centers for support in hosting candidates using screen reader software.
- Collaborated with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) to explore using these centers as dedicated exam venues for visually impaired candidates.
Future of Inclusive Examinations
The DEPwD has expressed readiness to develop these centers further, while UPSC will manage aspects like software selection, data security, and accessibility of question papers.
UPSC assured the Court that it is actively reviewing all recommendations and that no amendment to the Civil Services Examination Rules 2025 is required to implement screen reader technology.
This initiative marks a significant step toward inclusive examinations in India, ensuring that visually impaired aspirants can compete in the UPSC Civil Services and other exams on an equal footing.