Latest Updates on IBPS Vacancies: Prospects for 2018 and Beyond
Every aspirant looking to secure a place in the prestigious IBPS (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection) PO (Probationary Officer) and Clerk recruitment processes is eagerly anticipating the announcement of vacancies. This article provides an overview of the latest updates regarding the chances of an increase in vacancies, with a specific focus on the developments in 2018.
Current Status and Projections
There is definite optimism regarding the potential increase in IBPS PO and Clerk vacancies for the 2018 recruitment drives. As of now, numerous banks have already communicated their tentative vacancy figures, although these numbers are subject to change. The cumulative vacancies reported currently stand at around 5548, and it is anticipated that this number could rise up to 6000.
Some sources, including RTI (Right to Information) responses, suggest that a supplementary set of vacancies might be released by selective banks like BOB (Bank of Baroda) and OBC (Other Banking Corporation) in the coming days. These additional vacancies, when combined with the existing ones, could bring the total closer to the projected figure.
According to a preliminary estimate, around 1500 new vacancies are likely to be added. These estimates come from various banking institutions and thereby provide a broader outlook on the recruitment landscape for 2018.
Insights from RTI Responses
A significant amount of information regarding the vacant positions has been made available through RTI responses. For example, the PNB (Punjab National Bank) has approximately 900 vacant positions, while the BOM (Bombay Bank) has around 300 vacancies.
It is important to note that the PSB (Public Sector Banks), which do have a high demand for Probationary Officers, are not actively participating in the IBPS recruitment process due to financial constraints. This reluctance to recruit new staff, especially in light of non-performing assets (NPAs), indicates a cautious approach from the banks.
Challenges and Trends
Alongside the expected increase in vacancies, there are certain challenges and trends that aspirants need to be aware of. For instance, many banks are now preferring to recruit candidates through PGDBF (Post Graduate Diploma in Banking and Finance) courses. This shift means that the traditional IBPS recruitment process may not be as welcoming to fresh graduates seeking jobs in PSBs.
Despite the optimistic outlook, it is necessary to consider the broader context in which banking recruitment operates. With many banks looking to reduce expenses and enhance profitability, the likelihood of significant vacancies through the IBPS process may be diminishing. Some sources even suggest that the introduction of Manipal exams, which are expensive and yield limited benefits, could further decrease the chances of an increase in IBPS vacancies.
Future Outlook and Final Thoughts
While there is a possibility of increased IBPS vacancies, the future is inherently unpredictable. Banks will continue to evaluate their financial health and operational needs to make decisions regarding recruitment. As of now, the best approach for candidates is to stay prepared and diligent in their preparations.
For the upcoming IBPS PO/MT VIII rounds, candidates should not place high expectations on an increase in vacancies. Instead, they should focus on refining their preparation techniques and honing their skills. With a solid preparation and a realistic outlook, candidates can increase their chances of success in this highly competitive field.