| New JKAS probation, examination rules 2026 notified | | 7 papers, 50% qualifying marks made mandatory | | Early Times Report
Srinagar, Oct 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has notified a revised regulatory framework governing probation and departmental examinations for officers recruited to the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) through the Combined Competitive Examination, introducing significant changes to the existing service qualification requirements.
The General Administration Department (GAD), through Government Notification S.O. 278 dated October 28, 2026, has issued the Jammu and Kashmir Combined Competitive Services (Probation and Examination) Rules, 2026, under the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution of India.
The newly notified rules will come into force with immediate effect and will be applicable to candidates appointed to the Junior Scale of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service through the Jammu and Kashmir Combined Competitive Examination.
Under the revised framework, directly recruited JKAS officers will be required to complete a probation period of two years.
The first annual increment will become admissible after completion of the first year. However, the second increment will remain withheld until the probationer successfully completes the prescribed probation period and qualifies the departmental examination.
The rules also make passing the prescribed examination mandatory for confirmation in service. However, the Government may grant exemption in exceptional circumstances after recording sufficient reasons in writing.
A major feature of the revised rules is the introduction of a comprehensive seven-paper examination system.
Each paper will carry 100 marks, and probationers will have to secure at least 50 per cent marks in every individual paper to qualify.
The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) will conduct the examination twice annually, as far as practicable, at venues and on dates determined by the Commission.
Candidates will be allowed to consult Bare Acts, Rules, Regulations and Manuals during the written examination. However, the permitted reference material must contain only relevant legal provisions without annotations.
The notification provides three regular opportunities to every probationer to clear the prescribed examination, along with one additional mercy chance.
Candidates who are unable to appear in an examination due to circumstances beyond their control may also seek permission from the Government to avail themselves of the missed opportunity.
Applications for the examination will be submitted through the concerned Administrative Department, while the JKPSC will prescribe the detailed examination procedure separately.
The syllabus attached to the notification covers a broad range of subjects concerning public administration, Jammu and Kashmir’s regional profile, service regulations, revenue administration, development programmes, social welfare and the legal framework. |
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