Chennai: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) closes applications today for the first stage of the Civil Services Examination, which recruits candidates for 21 prestigious posts, including the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS).

This year, a total of 979 vacancies are available, and the preliminary examination is scheduled for May 25.

Candidates who qualify will proceed to the main examination, followed by the interview stage.

Final appointments will be based on overall merit and ranking.