The road is now clear for the Jharkhand Eligibility Test (JET), which determines eligibility for appointments to Assistant Professor positions in the state’s colleges. After receiving Cabinet approval, the Department of Higher and Technical Education has announced the relevant regulations. According to these, the JET will be conducted annually by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission.
This marks the first time in 16 years that this exam will be held in the state. Previously, the exam was conducted in the 2007-08 academic year, which was quite controversial. The newly formulated regulations have brought several changes to the exam pattern. Now, the exam will be computer-based with objective questions. It will consist of two papers.
The first paper will focus on Teaching, Research Aptitude, and Reasoning Ability, with a total of 50 questions each worth two marks. The second paper will be subject-specific, comprising 100 questions also valued at two marks each. There will be no gap between the two papers, making it a three-hour exam. There will be no negative marking.
As per the regulations, candidates must score a minimum of 55% in the relevant subject to qualify for this exam. OBC, SC, ST, and differently-abled candidates will receive a 5% relaxation. Similarly, candidates who have completed their post-graduation before September 19, 1991, will also get a 5% relaxation. There is no maximum age limit for appearing in this exam. The exam will cover a total of 43 subjects.
PhD Enrollment Included
With the JET, candidates who pass will not only qualify for Assistant Professor positions but also for enrollment in PhD programs. Those who clear the exam will be considered eligible for PhD enrollment.
Steering Committee Formation
To conduct this exam, two committees will be formed by the Jharkhand Public Service Commission. The first is the Steering Committee, with the Chairperson being the Chair of the Commission itself. This committee will include, as members on a rotation basis, two Vice-Chancellors of universities, one educator, and one representative from the state government. Meanwhile, the Moderation Committee’s Chairperson will also be from the Steering Committee. In this committee, again on a rotation basis, two professors from state universities, one professor from another state university, and one officer appointed by the UGC will serve as members. The examination fee will be determined by the Steering Committee.
