8 thousand people applied for 187 home guard posts in Odisha

The Home Guard examination conducted in Sambalpur district of Odisha received an overwhelming response. For just 187 Home Guard posts, as many as 8,000 candidates appeared for the exam. Due to the unusually large turnout, authorities had to seat the candidates at the Jamdarpali airstrip and conduct the examination there.

Although the minimum qualification for these posts is only a fifth-class pass, a significant number of graduates and postgraduates also competed for the positions. Candidates began arriving at the examination centre from early morning, leading to some initial confusion.

The unexpected surge in the number of applicants posed several logistical challenges for the authorities, including security arrangements, seating management, and maintaining discipline. Despite these difficulties, officials managed to conduct the examination smoothly and peacefully.