What historical events have significantly affected the UPSC examination format?
Several historical events have shaped the UPSC examination format, notably India's independence in 1947 and the subsequent reforms in civil service selection. The introduction of the Mandal Commission recommendations in the 1990s led to affirmative action policies, influencing candidate demographics. Furthermore, technological advancements have transitioned the exam from pen-paper formats to computer-based methods, enhancing efficiency. Events like the re-evaluation of the syllabus and introduction of interview rounds reflect evolving governance needs, thus continually influencing the examination, ensuring that the selection process stays relevant to contemporary requirements.