The Uttar Pradesh Teacher Eligibility Test (UPTET) 2026 has commenced today, July 2, with close to 20 lakh candidates participating across the state. This examination is being organised by the Uttar Pradesh Education Selection Commission for the first time and is scheduled to take place over five shifts from July 2 to July 4 at 955 centres spread across 60 districts.

According to the Commission, a total of 19,94,661 candidates are registered for the test. Of these, 8,16,436 are slated to sit for the Upper Primary level (Classes 6–8), 3,88,179 for the Primary level (Classes 1–5), and 3,95,023 candidates will take exams for both levels. In Prayagraj alone, 76,063 candidates will be examining at 53 centres designated for the purpose.

The examination will extend over three days, with the Upper Primary exam conducted in both shifts on July 2. July 3 will see the Upper Primary examination in the first shift, followed by the Primary level in the second. On July 4, only the Primary level exam will be conducted in the first shift, which runs from 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, while the afternoon shift is scheduled from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm.

Candidates Seek Fairness and Prompt Recruitment

Candidates began arriving at examination centres as early as 7:00 am, facing strict security protocols before entry. Many expressed their hopes for a fair examination process, urging the government to accelerate the teacher recruitment process after results are released. Mukesh Kumar Sonkar, a candidate, stated his desire for adherence to rules given the history of paper leaks, and urged swift announcements for teacher vacancies.

He added that the government should establish a clear recruitment calendar to eliminate prolonged waiting periods for candidates following exam results. Many candidates reported having dedicated months in preparation and voiced optimism that the recruitment process would be efficient once the examination concluded.

The concerns surrounding past irregularities have led to heightened anticipation for a seamless examination experience this year. Candidates hope that the examination will run smoothly, fostering quick recruitment notifications subsequent to the results.

Robust Security Protocols Implemented

The Commission has instituted extensive measures to guarantee that the examination is conducted transparently and securely. Observers, including retired IAS and IPS officials, have been assigned to monitor activities across all districts. Multi-layered security measures are in place at examination centres, incorporating biometric iris scanning and AI-enabled CCTV surveillance, complemented by oversight from an Integrated Command and Control Room.

Entry will be strictly regulated, requiring candidates to present valid admit cards before allowing access to examination centres. The Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (UP STF) has been assigned to mitigate malpractice and disrupt cheating networks, while district administrations are mandated to provide comprehensive logistical support throughout the examination process.

To assist candidates, the Commission is facilitating access to drinking water at examination centres. Coordination with the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation and the Railways has led to the provision of additional buses and special trains. Candidates have been advised to arrive well in advance of reporting times and to cooperate with officials to ensure a peaceful examination environment.

Focus on Integrity Following Previous Irregularities

This year’s UPTET is operating under scrutiny due to a previous paper leak incident in 2021 that resulted in the examination being cancelled and rescheduled. With reinforced security measures this year, participants are hopeful that the assessment will be executed without complications, and that timely teacher recruitment notifications will follow after results are announced.

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