Sir: The government has decided to introduce a cluster-based examination system for the Central Superior Services from 2017 by abolishing the previous generalised system. It is a positive step towards bringing reforms in the civil service structure that are inevitable, but the government should be very clear in forming a strategy towards specialised groups. In my opinion, the government should formulate these specialised modules in accordance with their subjects, syllabi and demand in recent times. It should be made compulsory for candidates to opt for the same subjects of the specialised groups they intend to join. For example, if someone is aspiring for the foreign service group, it should be compulsory for him to be examined in subjects like international relations and international law. There is also a need to study the Indian experience of the cluster system, as this issue was extensively debated in India and now finally they have come back to the generalised system instead of a specialised cluster-based system of examinations. Moreover, the government needs to introduce legislation to end the menace of corruption in bureaucracy.
AHMAD HUMAYUN ASGHAR
Lahore