The State Common Entrance Test (CET) Cell, tasked with managing the critical process of admissions for professional courses across Maharashtra, is grappling with a major manpower crisis. Despite handling the admission process for over 1.3 lakh students annually, the CET Cell is operating with less than half its sanctioned workforce — a situation that has persisted for nearly a decade, reported Loksatta. Established in 2015 by the state government, the CET Cell was envisioned to ensure a smooth and transparent admission process for professional courses such as engineering, medical, agriculture, and arts. Over the years, the Board has proven its efficiency, leading to an increased scope of responsibility. However, staffing levels have not kept pace with the growing workload.
Out of the 30 posts sanctioned at the time of its establishment, only 13 are currently filled. The burden of executing key tasks — including candidate registration, exam conduction across domestic and international centers, merit list announcements, and final admission procedures — falls on this small team. Of the 13 occupied posts, only two — Commissioner and Accountant — have been filled through direct government recruitment. Four positions are filled through deputation, while the remaining seven are on a contractual basis. The core operational team, which includes Examination Coordinators and Assistant Examination Coordinators, is also understaffed. Out of 12 such sanctioned posts, only four are filled, all through deputation, reported Loksatta.
The situation has forced existing employees to shoulder multiple responsibilities, often beyond their original scope of work, leading to growing pressure and potential inefficiencies. The Admission Regulatory Authority, which verifies admissions made through the CET Cell, is facing similar staffing issues. Out of its 22 sanctioned posts, only six are currently filled. Authorities warn that if the staff shortage continues, it could delay or disrupt the confirmation of student admissions. Efforts have been made to address the crisis. The CET Cell has repeatedly proposed to the Department of Higher and Technical Education to fill the vacant positions, either through recruitment or deputation from allied departments like Medical, Agricultural, and Art Education. However, a lack of interest among department employees in taking up deputation roles has further complicated the issue.
Experts believe that filling the vacant posts is crucial for the CET Cell to function at its optimal capacity and maintain the integrity of the admission process. Until then, the burden remains heavy on a handful of dedicated staff striving to deliver crucial educational services to thousands of aspirants each year.