The maiden attempt of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) to hold the Central Teacher Eligibility Test (CTET) in a computerised format has been marred by technical issues, forcing the board to defer the exams.

The first edition of the CTET in the computer-based test (CBT) format was given to TCS. The test was scheduled to be held in two shifts on exam days for different batches between December 16 and January 13. Technical issues affected the exam in some of the centres in the first shift on Thursday.

“On day one of the examination, unexpected technical issues impacted operations in certain venues, in the first shift. As a result, candidates in affected venues could not complete the exam. Consequently, we had to cancel the second shift examination,” said a statement by TCS iON.

“We are working to fully understand and quickly address these issues. TCS iON is committed to delivering superior candidate experience across the country and ensuring that the exams are conducted in a secured and inclusive manner. Towards this, we are rescheduling the candidates of CTET shift 2 of December 16 and both the shifts in December 17, 2021, to a later date,” the statement said.

The shifts starting Monday remain unchanged. The testing agency will shortly announce the revised dates for the candidates affected by the rescheduling of the CTET shifts.

Nearly 20 lakh candidates have registered for the test. The results are used as a minimum eligibility requirement for appointment of teachers in central government-run schools and several private schools.

Candidates unable to take the test in the first shift will also be given a chance later, an official said.