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UP's CM Fellow Program Perks Spark Controversy

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/03 .. s-cm-fellow-program-perks-spark-controversy.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 2:30 GMT by ThePrint
      Locales: Uttar Pradesh, INDIA

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh - February 3, 2026 - A recent decision by the Uttar Pradesh government to award additional marks to participants of the Chief Minister (CM) Fellow program in state government recruitment exams has ignited a firestorm of controversy. The move, formalized by an order from the Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Service Selection Commission (UPSSSC) on January 31st, 2026, grants 20 marks to CM Fellows participating in general category recruitment exams. This isn't the first attempt; a similar proposal for 10 marks was initially approved in 2023 but subsequently rescinded following public outcry.

Understanding the CM Fellow Program

Launched in 2021, the CM Fellow program is a flagship initiative designed to attract talented graduates and involve them directly in the policy-making and implementation processes within the Uttar Pradesh government. The program aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical governance, allowing fellows to contribute to real-world challenges related to development and public administration. Selection is reportedly competitive, involving a rigorous application and assessment process. Fellows work on diverse projects, gaining hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the intricacies of government operations.

How the New Policy Works - and Why It's Provoking Debate

The newly implemented order stipulates that CM Fellows will receive an automatic addition of 20 marks to their scores in general category recruitment exams. This effectively creates a preferential weighting, giving them a significant advantage over other candidates who haven't participated in the program. The government justifies this policy as a recognition of the skills and experience gained by fellows during their participation, arguing it incentivizes future enrollment and rewards their contributions. Proponents suggest the program has cultivated a pool of individuals uniquely prepared to serve the state effectively.

However, the decision has been widely criticized as unfair and potentially illegal. Opponents argue that awarding marks based on program participation, rather than solely on demonstrated merit through the examination process, undermines the principles of equal opportunity and open competition. This raises concerns about the integrity of the recruitment system and the potential for qualified candidates to be overlooked in favor of those who have already benefited from a specific government initiative.

"A Clear Case of Executive Overreach"

A senior government official, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the decision as "a clear case of executive overreach." The official contends that awarding extra marks based on participation in a specific program fundamentally compromises the meritocratic foundation of the recruitment process. They suggest it creates an uneven playing field and potentially violates principles of fairness enshrined in the constitution.

Legal experts are also weighing in, raising the possibility of legal challenges. Many argue the policy could be interpreted as a form of reservation not sanctioned by law. Reservation policies, designed to address historical disadvantages, are generally based on well-defined social or economic categories. Awarding marks based on participation in a voluntary program is seen as a different matter entirely, potentially opening the door to accusations of discrimination against those who didn't have the opportunity or chose not to participate in the CM Fellow program. Some legal scholars are suggesting a potential challenge under Article 14 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law.

Past Attempts and Current Context

The government's previous attempt to implement a similar policy in 2023, awarding 10 marks, faced intense scrutiny and was ultimately withdrawn. The current decision to increase the mark allocation to 20 suggests a renewed commitment to the program and a perceived need to attract and retain talent within the state bureaucracy. This could also be interpreted as a strategic move to bolster the government's image by showcasing the success of the CM Fellow program.

Wider Implications for Public Sector Recruitment

The controversy extends beyond the specific case of the CM Fellow program. It raises broader questions about the role of experiential learning and skills development in public sector recruitment. While acknowledging the value of practical experience, critics argue that such experience should be assessed through robust evaluation methods integrated into the examination process, rather than through arbitrary mark allocations. The current approach is seen as a shortcut that potentially devalues the importance of core competencies and academic achievements.

The situation is rapidly evolving, and it remains to be seen whether the policy will withstand legal challenges or public pressure. One thing is certain: the decision has sparked a crucial debate about fairness, meritocracy, and the future of public sector recruitment in Uttar Pradesh and potentially beyond.