# 1.6 lakh candidates appear for TNPSC Group I prelims exam 2026-09-28T01:16:36+00:00 | Governance | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet A total of 1,65,828 candidates appeared for the TNPSC Group I preliminary examination across Tamil Nadu on Sunday. The exam, conducted to fill 46 vacancies for posts including deputy collector and deputy superintendent of police, was described by candidates as moderately difficult and time-consuming. Some aspirants expressed disappointment that the current affairs section did not cover recent events or questions related to the state budget and government schemes. Of 2,23,440 applicants, 57,612 were absent. Candidates who clear this 300-mark paper with 175 general studies and 25 mental ability questions will be shortlisted in a 1:20 ratio for the mains examination. ## Indian Opinion Analysis TNPSC Group I exams are among the toughest state civil services tests in the country, attracting lakhs of applicants for single-digit vacancies each year. The 1:20 shortlisting ratio for the mains means over 8,200 candidates from this prelims pool will qualify for the next stage, but only 46 will ultimately be selected. Candidates disappointed by the absence of recent Tamil Nadu budget and scheme questions may reflect a deliberate shift in exam pattern by the commission. The TNPSC has faced criticism in the past for delayed recruitment cycles, the conduct of this prelims clears one hurdle, but the full selection process, including mains and interviews, will stretch over many months before final appointments are gazetted. ## Coverage - timesofindia.indiatimes.com Tags: Group I exam, Tamil Nadu, TNPSC Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/1-6-lakh-candidates-appear-for-tnpsc-group-i-prelims-exam/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/1-6-lakh-candidates-appear-for-tnpsc-group-i-prelims-exam/#story-in-brief