Restrictions on the number of attempts for UPSC mains:

There are certain restrictions on the number of attempts for the UPSC mains examination. Let's discuss these restrictions in detail:

1. General Category:
- Candidates belonging to the general category can attempt the UPSC mains examination a maximum of six times.
- Once a candidate exhausts their six attempts, they are no longer eligible to appear for the examination.

2. OBC Category:
- Candidates belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category can attempt the UPSC mains examination a maximum of nine times.
- Once a candidate exhausts their nine attempts, they are no longer eligible to appear for the examination.

3. SC/ST Category:
- Candidates belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories do not face any restrictions on the number of attempts.
- They can attempt the UPSC mains examination as many times as they want, provided they meet the other eligibility criteria.

4. Physically Disabled Category:
- Candidates belonging to the Physically Disabled category (also known as Persons with Benchmark Disability) can attempt the UPSC mains examination a maximum of nine times.
- Once a candidate exhausts their nine attempts, they are no longer eligible to appear for the examination.

5. Age Limit:
- The age limit also plays a role in the number of attempts for the UPSC mains examination.
- General category candidates can appear for the examination until they reach the age of 32.
- OBC category candidates have an age relaxation of three years, allowing them to appear until the age of 35.
- SC/ST category candidates have an age relaxation of five years, allowing them to appear until the age of 37.

6. Relaxation for Defense Personnel:
- Candidates who have served in the armed forces for a certain period of time, including ECOs/SSCOs, have additional attempts and age relaxations.
- The number of additional attempts and age relaxations depend on the length of their service and other criteria.

Conclusion:
In summary, the restrictions on the number of attempts for the UPSC mains examination vary based on the category of the candidate. General category candidates have a maximum of six attempts, OBC and Physically Disabled category candidates have nine attempts, while SC/ST candidates have unlimited attempts. Additionally, the age limit also determines the number of attempts allowed. It is important for candidates to be aware of these restrictions and plan their preparation accordingly.