Want a Karnataka Government Job? Climb an Electric Pole to Qualify, Says Karnataka Government
Obtaining a government job in Karnataka's power sector used to depend exclusively on academic qualifications. Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited, KPTCL, and five Escoms have introduced pole-climbing tests for Group D job applicants as a qualification test that requires them to climb an 8-meter tall concrete pole. Therefore, the situation is unusual as well as challenging for workers who want a government job.
The Karnataka Government Job has introduced a pole-climbing test
Shot Put: Throw a 5.4 kg ball at least 8 meters with three attempts allowed.
Even with training, about 80% of applicants fail to achieve these physical requirements. KPTCL officials point out that most applicants are unable to climb more than 2 meters before they quit trying.
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Historical Context and Backlash
The pole-climbing test was introduced in 2015 for Junior Station Attendant (JSA) and Junior Powerman roles. It has since become a major barrier to entry and is one of the reasons for complaints from applicants. Many are calling on the Karnataka Public Service Commission (KPSC) or Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) to go back to written examination as the primary mode of selection.
Concerns by Applicants
Candidates argue that such physical tests are completely unnecessary and limit opportunities for those who are capable in academics but may not meet some of the physical benchmarks. This has led to protests, as many believe the recruitment process favors those who better fit the physical requirements rather than one's technical skills.
While the KPTCL defends the test as essential to the particular job requirements, it has inadvertently turned this recruitment process into a significant challenge. This new paradigm of hiring continues to cause debate over balancing job-specific physical demands with the provision of public sector employment for all.
