In a landmark move toward inclusive governance and equal employment opportunities, the Odisha government has incorporated a ‘Third Gender’ option in the application form for the Odisha Civil Services (OCS) Examination–2025. The change has been implemented by the Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) following directives from the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC).
The decision comes after a petition was filed by Soni Sil, a third gender civil services aspirant, who highlighted the absence of an appropriate gender category in the OCS examination form. Acting on the complaint, the OHRC directed the General Administration and Public Grievance Department to amend the recruitment notification and ensure equal opportunity for third gender candidates.
In response, OPSC revised its OCS-2025 notification to include the new category. Authorities have also extended the registration and application deadlines to provide adequate time for eligible candidates to apply under the updated format.
Officials clarified that candidates who have officially changed their names after receiving third gender recognition must submit valid supporting documents during the application process.
Beyond OPSC, the OHRC has directed the Department of Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities to ensure that all state government departments and public sector undertakings integrate the ‘Third Gender’ option in their recruitment processes. The Commission has sought a compliance report from the state government within 60 days.
