Overview
The Dakshina Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha (DBHPS), commonly called the Hindi Prachar Sabha, is a Hindi-teaching organisation headquartered in Chennai, set up in 1918 to spread Hindi in non-Hindi-speaking states of South India. It runs a graded set of Hindi-language examinations, open to the public rather than tied to school enrolment, and recognised by central and state governments.
Who can apply
The exams are open to anyone who wants a certified Hindi qualification, not just school students, and candidates move up through the levels in sequence rather than choosing any level freely.
Exam pattern
DBHPS conducts several graded levels of Hindi proficiency exams: Parichaya, Prathamik, Madhyama, Rashtrabhasha, Praveshika, Rashtrabhasha Visharad and Rashtrabhasha Praveen. It also runs separate exams in Hindi typewriting (Lower, Higher and High Speed) and Hindi shorthand.
Marking and results
DBHPS states its examinations are recognised by the Central Government and by state governments, which is what makes these certificates useful for government job requirements and Hindi-teacher eligibility in several states.
Important dates
Exams are held twice a year, in the January–February and August–September cycles.
How to apply
Applications and fee payment are made online through DBHPS's regional application portals (the organisation runs state-wise branches, for example a separate portal for Kerala). Check dbhpscentral.org for the current session's registration link and fee for your level and region.
Preparation tips
Confirm which level you're eligible to register for next, since the levels build on each other.
Since typewriting and shorthand are examined separately from the language-proficiency levels, don't confuse the two tracks when registering.
Who conducts the Hindi Prachar Sabha exams?
The Dakshina Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha (DBHPS), headquartered in Chennai, a Hindi-teaching organisation active mainly in South India.
Are these exams only for school students?
No. They are open to the public and are commonly taken by adults working toward a certified Hindi qualification, including for government job requirements.
How often are the exams held?
Twice a year, in the January–February and August–September cycles.
Are DBHPS certificates government-recognised?
DBHPS states its exams are recognised by the Central Government and by state governments.