But here’s what no one’s talking about: 24 of the 394 vacancies are specifically for women. That’s a quiet milestone in a field that’s been male-dominated for decades. The exam’s split into two shifts; Math (10 am to 12:30 pm) and GAT (2 pm to 4 pm). Total marks? 900. And yes, there’s negative marking; lose 1/3rd for every wrong answer. Admit cards won’t be mailed. You’ll have to download them yourself, last working day before the exam. No excuses, no extensions. UPSC doesn’t do handouts. Here’s the real deal: If you’re preparing, this isn’t just another date on the calendar. It’s your finish line. Start treating it like one. Review your syllabus, practice timed papers, check your centre in advance. And if you’re one of those 24 female candidates? You’re not just filling a quota. You’re rewriting the rules. The military’s changing. And you’re part of it.