The numbers
The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board (UPPRPB) has released the answer key for the Sub-Inspector (SI) written examination conducted on March 14 and 15, 2026. This examination was held to fill 4,543 Sub-Inspector posts, attracting a staggering 1,575,760 applicants, of whom 1,077,403 candidates participated in the exam.
The exam was administered across 1,090 centers in 75 districts, reflecting the scale and logistical challenges involved in such a significant recruitment process. Candidates were evaluated on a total of 160 questions, with the exam carrying a maximum of 400 marks. Each correct answer earned candidates 2.5 marks, while the absence of negative marking provided a more favorable environment for test-takers.
Released on March 23, 2026, the answer key is a crucial resource for candidates, allowing them to calculate their expected scores and ensuring transparency in the evaluation process. The official website for accessing the answer key is www.uppbpb.gov.in, where candidates can log in using their details to download the response sheet PDF.
Moreover, candidates have until March 26, 2026, to raise objections against the provisional response sheet, a process that underscores the board’s commitment to fairness and accuracy in the recruitment process. This provision allows candidates to challenge any discrepancies they may find in the answer key, ensuring that their concerns are addressed before final results are declared.
The expected cutoff marks for the General category are projected to be between 297 and 305, a figure that will be closely monitored by candidates as they await the final results. The anticipation surrounding these cutoffs highlights the competitive nature of the recruitment process, as candidates strive to secure one of the limited positions available.
Historically, the UP SI recruitment exams have drawn significant attention due to the high number of applicants and the critical role that Sub-Inspectors play in maintaining law and order in the state. The UPPRPB’s efforts to streamline the recruitment process and enhance transparency through measures like the answer key release are indicative of a broader trend towards improving public service recruitment in India.
As candidates await further updates, including the final results and any adjustments to the cutoff marks, the release of the answer key marks a pivotal moment in the recruitment timeline. Observers expect that the board will continue to uphold its commitment to transparency and fairness, but details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential changes to the examination process or the final results timeline.
