The National Testing Agency (NTA) has allowed CSIR-UGC NET aspirants to apply for examinations without category and result awaited attention forms as some candidates were finding it difficult to obtain the mandatory category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD) or result certificates due to the nationwide COVID-19 lockdown. The last date for online submission of the application form is May 15, 2020. 

Union HRD minister Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank tweeted about this relaxation on Saturday. His tweet read, “Dear Joint CSIR-UGC NET aspirants! In view of the difficulties faced by you & the situation arising out of #COVID19 lockdown, I have advised @DG_NTA to relax the mandatory provision of submission/upload of the certificates, other than the photograph & signature of the candidate.” However, the candidates are advised to obtain the latest and valid certifications as they will have to produce them later when asked to.

Dear Joint CSIR-UGC NET aspirants!
In view of the difficulties faced by you & the situation arising out of #COVID19 lockdown, I have advised @DG_NTA to relax the mandatory provision of submission/upload of the certificates, other than the photograph & signature of the candidate. pic.twitter.com/lLRbm1JZKZ

— Dr Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank (@DrRPNishank) May 2, 2020

The public notice from NTA issued on May 1 reads, “In view of the difficulties faced by the aspiring applicants and also in view of the situation arising out of the COVID-19 lockdown in the country, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has decided to relax the mandatory provision of submission/ uploading of the certificates, other than the photograph and signature of the candidate, on submission/ uploading of an undertaking stating therein that the updated and valid category certificate/ result awaited attestation form and any other documents from competent authority shall be furnished as and when it is required by the CSIR.” Candidates can apply for the examination online at csirnet.nta.nic.in on or before May 15 by submitting the scanned copies of their photographs and signatures. They are also advised to check the website on regular basis for updates.

Also read: UGC issues guidelines on new academic year

Source: Hindustan Times