The Odisha Sub-Ordinate Staff Selection Commission conducted the OSSSC RI ARI Mains Examination 2026 on 26 April 2026 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon across multiple centres in the state. The examination is part of the CRE-2023 (IV) recruitment process and is aimed at filling several revenue and supervisory posts.
This analysis presents a structured overview of the exam, including difficulty level, section-wise insights, expected good attempts, and key observations based on candidate feedback. It is intended to help candidates understand the nature of the paper and assess their performance with clarity.
The OSSSC RI ARI examination is conducted to recruit candidates for multiple posts including Revenue Inspector, Assistant Revenue Inspector, Amin, ICDS Supervisor, and Statistical Field Surveyor. A total of 2453 vacancies are to be filled through this recruitment cycle.
The table below outlines the key highlights of the examination:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Conducting Authority | OSSSC |
| Recruitment Name | CRE-2023 (IV) |
| Posts | RI, ARI, Amin, ICDS Supervisor, SFS |
| Vacancies | 2453 |
| Exam Date | 26 April 2026 |
| Mode | Computer-Based Test |
| Total Questions | 180 |
| Total Marks | 180 |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Negative Marking | 0.33 |
The examination followed a multiple-choice format and required candidates to manage time efficiently across all sections.
Difficulty
Based on initial feedback from candidates, the overall difficulty level of the exam was easy to moderate. While some sections were relatively straightforward, others required careful reading and conceptual clarity.
A section-wise difficulty assessment is provided below:
| Subject | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|
| Mathematics | Easy to Moderate |
| Computer Awareness | Easy |
| English Language | Very Easy |
| Odia Language | Moderate |
| General Studies | Moderate |
The English and Computer sections were reported to be more accessible, while General Studies required a broader understanding of topics.
Attempts
The number of good attempts is an important indicator for evaluating performance. For this examination, a safe attempt range is estimated to be between 140 and 150 questions out of 180.
Candidates who maintained accuracy within this range are likely to be in a competitive position. Due to the presence of negative marking, precision in answering questions remains essential.
Sections
A detailed section-wise breakdown provides better insight into the structure and focus areas of the examination.
Mathematics
The Mathematics section included questions from standard topics such as arithmetic, geometry, and basic trigonometry. Key areas included:
- Profit and Loss
- Percentages
- Simple and Compound Interest
- Geometry with emphasis on circles
- Basic trigonometric concepts
Most questions were formula-based and could be solved with regular practice.
English
The English section was reported to be very easy. Questions focused on fundamental language skills, including:
- Grammar usage
- Vocabulary
- Sentence correction
This section offered an opportunity to score high with minimal difficulty.
Odia
The Odia language section was moderate in difficulty. It assessed comprehension and grammatical understanding. Candidates with a clear grasp of language fundamentals found this section manageable.
Computer
The Computer Awareness section was straightforward. It included basic and application-based questions such as:
- Common shortcut keys like Ctrl+C and Ctrl+V
- Basic functions of MS Excel
- General computer knowledge
This section did not present significant challenges for most candidates.
General Studies
The General Studies section was comparatively more demanding. It covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Polity with questions on constitutional amendments and GST
- Structure and powers of the Supreme Court
- Medieval Indian history and dynasties
- Physical geography of India, including coastal plains
- Current affairs related to recent government schemes and agriculture
This section required both factual knowledge and conceptual understanding.
Pattern
The examination pattern remained consistent with previous formats. It was conducted in a computer-based mode with objective-type questions.
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice |
| Total Questions | 180 |
| Total Marks | 180 |
| Duration | 3 Hours |
| Negative Marking | 1/3 per incorrect answer |
Qualifying Marks
The minimum qualifying marks differ by category:
| Category | Minimum Percentage |
|---|---|
| General | 35% |
| SC/ST/PwD | 30% |
Meeting the qualifying criteria is necessary, but final selection depends on overall performance and cut-off trends.
Paper
The memory-based question paper serves as a useful reference for candidates. It reflects the type and distribution of questions asked in the actual examination.
Practicing such papers can help candidates:
- Know the pattern of questions
- Identify frequently asked topics
- Improve time management and accuracy
It also provides a realistic benchmark for future preparation.
Strategy
For candidates preparing for upcoming examinations, a structured approach is advisable. Greater emphasis should be placed on General Studies due to its broader scope. At the same time, scoring sections such as English and Computer should not be overlooked.
Regular practice of Mathematics and consistent revision of current affairs can contribute to better performance. A balanced preparation strategy, supported by mock tests and previous papers, can improve both speed and accuracy.
Overall, the OSSSC RI ARI Exam 2026 maintained a balanced level of difficulty and covered a wide range of topics. Candidates who prepared systematically and maintained accuracy were better positioned to perform well.
FAQs
What was the exam difficulty level?
The exam was easy to moderate overall.
What are considered good attempts?
Around 140-150 attempts are considered safe.
Which section was most difficult?
General Studies was relatively more challenging.
Is there negative marking in the exam?
Yes, 0.33 marks are deducted for each wrong answer.
What was the mode of the examination?
The exam was conducted in computer-based mode.
