The recruitment test for Home Guards in Koraput saw an overwhelming response, drawing graduates, postgraduates, MBAs, and ITI holders — a reflection of the current employment crunch.
The written examination was held for 125 posts, with 5,690 candidates appearing out of 7,281 applicants. Candidates needed at least a Class V pass with basic knowledge of Odia and English. Successful candidates will serve in Koraput district police stations and must later pass a physical test. Applicants aged 20–60 were eligible.
Superintendent of police Rohit Verma said: “The examination was held smoothly for one-and-a-half hours.” Results will be announced in a week.
The voluntary post lasts three years, extendable if conduct is satisfactory. Salary is ₹18,360 per month, with a daily wage of ₹612.
Postgraduate aspirant Santosh Mohapatra said: “For the last two years, I have appeared at interviews. No opportunity so far. Any job is important for me.”
Biju Yuva Janata Dal president Chinmaya Sahoo criticised the government for lacking a concrete youth policy, noting only 57,000 appointments in 15 months against a promised 1.5 lakh and highlighting irregularities in several recruitment exams.