Government Exams After 12th 2026: Complete List with Important Dates, Salary, Eligibility & Stream-Wise Options

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Government Exams After 12th
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  • Government exams after 12th in 2026 provide early career opportunities across SSC, Railways, Defence, and State jobs, offering stable employment, salaries ranging from INR 20,000–80,000/month, and benefits like allowances, pension, and long-term career growth.
  • Government exams after 12th include major options like SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, NDA, Agniveer, and Coast Guard Navik, with eligibility typically 10th/12th pass and age limits between 18–33 years depending on the exam.
  • Government exams after 12th vary by stream, where PCM students can access all exams including technical roles (NDA Navy/AF, Air Force Group X, RRB ALP), while PCB, commerce, and arts students have broad access to SSC, railway, police, and defence (non-technical) roles.

After passing Class 12th, many students assume that college is the only next step, but that’s not always the case. If you want to start your career early, government exams after 12th offer a strong and practical alternative. Every year, multiple government exams are conducted for 12th-pass students across sectors like SSC, defence, railways, and police, providing opportunities to secure stable and respectable jobs. These roles are highly preferred due to their decent salary, job security, career growth, and additional benefits like allowances and pension.

In this article on government exams after 12th, you’ll find a complete list of exams along with important dates, eligibility criteria, and salary details. We’ve also explained everything stream-wise, Science, Commerce, and Arts, so you can easily identify which exams you are eligible for and plan your next step with clarity and confidence.

Why Apply for Government Exams Right After 12th?

After Class 12, most students are told to focus on graduation first and think about jobs later. But in reality, starting early with government exams after 12th can be a better option for many students. Below are the main reasons why:

1. Early Job Security: Government jobs are known for their stability. Starting preparation right after 12th gives you a head start, allowing you to secure a permanent job at a younger age.

2. Attractive Salary & Benefits: Even entry-level government jobs offer decent salaries along with perks like allowances, pension schemes, healthcare, and housing benefits.

3. Lower Competition Pressure (Initially): Many candidates start preparing after graduation. If you begin right after 12th, you get extra time to build strong fundamentals and stay ahead of the competition.

4. Multiple Exam Opportunities: After 12th, you can apply for various exams such as:

  • SSC CHSL
  • SSC MTS
  • Railway (RRB) Exams
  • Defence Exams (Army, Navy, Air Force)
  • State-level government jobs

5. Time Advantage for Preparation: You can dedicate more focused time to preparation without the academic pressure of college (if you choose to prepare full-time or alongside studies).

6. Career Growth & Promotions: Government jobs offer structured promotion systems, meaning you can grow steadily in your career over time with experience and internal exams.

7. Financial Independence Early: Clearing an exam early helps you become financially independent sooner, reducing the burden on your family.

8. Opportunity to Continue Studies: Many government employees continue higher education through distance learning or part-time courses while working.

Also Read: Highest-Paying Jobs In India 2026: Top Careers with Salary Range 

List of Government Exams After 12th

If you’re confused about which government exam to choose after Class 12, this table will make things clear. Below is a complete comparison of the major government exams after 12th in 2026, including eligibility, salary, age limit, and whether the job is permanent or not.

Exam NameConducting BodyPostStream EligibilityAgeApprox. In-Hand SalaryExam Date
SSC CHSLSSCLDC, JSA, PA, DEOAll streams18 to 27INR 25,000 to INR 35,000Apr–June 2026
SSC MTSSSCMultitasking StaffAll streams18 to 25INR 20,000 to INR 28,000July–Aug 2026
SSC GD ConstableSSCGD Constable (CAPFs)All streams18 to 23INR 30,000 to INR 40,000Late 2026 / Early 2027
SSC StenographerSSCStenographer Grade C & DAll streams + skill18 to 30INR 25,000 to INR 38,000Oct–Nov 2026
RRB NTPC (12th Level)RRBClerk, Accounts Clerk, Time KeeperAll streams18 to 33INR 22,000 to INR 32,000Mar–Apr 2026
RRB Group DRRBTrack Maintainer, HelperAll streams18 to 36INR 20,000 to INR 28,000Late 2026
RRB ALPRRBAssistant Loco PilotPCM / ITI18 to 28INR 28,000 to INR 38,000Mid–Late 2026
RPF ConstableRailway Protection ForceConstableAll streams18 to 28INR 25,000 to INR 35,000Late 2026
NDAUPSCArmy/Navy/Air Force OfficerPCM (Navy/AF), Army: any16.5 to 19.5INR 56,100+Apr & Sept 2026
Army AgniveerIndian ArmyAgniveerAll / PCM (technical)17.5 to 21INR 30,000 to INR 40,000Jan–July 2026
Navy SSRIndian NavySailor (SSR)PCM17 to 20INR 21,700+Feb & Aug 2026
Air Force Group XIndian Air ForceAirman (Technical)PCM17 to 21INR 33,100+Jan & Late 2026
Air Force Group YIndian Air ForceAirman (Non-Technical)All streams17 to 21INR 26,900+Jan & Late 2026
Coast Guard Navik GDIndian Coast GuardNavik (General Duty)PCM18 to 22INR 28,000 to INR 40,000Feb, June, Nov 2026
State Police ConstableState GovtConstableAll streams18 to 25INR 25,000 to INR 38,000Throughout 2026
India Post GDSIndia PostGramin Dak Sevak10th/12th merit18 to 40INR 12,000 to INR 14,500Jan, July, Dec 2026
Forest GuardState GovtForest GuardAll streams18 to 25INR 20,000 to INR 35,000State-wise 2026
CTET / TETCBSE / State BoardsTeacher Eligibility12th + D.El.Ed laterNo limitINR 35,000 to INR 70,000July & Dec 2026

SSC Exams After 12th 

SSC exams are often the first choice students consider under government exams after 12th. The main reason is simple: these jobs offer stability, are mostly office-based, and are open to students from all streams.

SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)

The SSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level) is one of the most popular options under government exams after 12th, offering posts like LDC, JSA, Postal Assistant/Sorting Assistant, and Data Entry Operator in central government departments. Candidates must have passed Class 12 and be aged between 18 to 27 years (with relaxation for reserved categories). Conducted annually by the Staff Selection Commission, the selection process includes Tier 1 (objective CBT), Tier 2 (objective + skill-based sections), followed by a qualifying typing/skill test depending on the post, with no interview stage. The salary falls under Level 2–4 (INR 19,900–INR 63,200), and the in-hand pay is typically around INR 25,000–INR 35,000 per month including allowances like DA, HRA, and TA. It is an excellent choice for students seeking a stable, office-based government job with fixed working hours, job security, and promotion opportunities.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameSSC CHSL (Combined Higher Secondary Level)
Conducting BodyStaff Selection Commission (SSC)
Eligibility12th Pass from a recognized board
Age Limit18–27 years (relaxation for reserved categories)
Posts OfferedLDC, JSA, Postal Assistant, Sorting Assistant, DEO
Selection ProcessTier 1 (CBT), Tier 2 (CBT + Skill), Typing/Skill Test
Exam FrequencyOnce a year
Notification (2026)Expected around April 30, 2026
Exam Dates (2026)Likely May–June 2026
Salary StructureINR 19,900 – INR 63,200 (Level 2–4)
In-hand SalaryINR 25,000 – INR 35,000/month (approx.)
Job TypeCentral Government, Desk Job
InterviewNo Interview
Job BenefitsDA, HRA, TA, Job Security, Promotions

SSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff)

The SSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff) exam is another popular option under government exams after 12th, especially for students looking for entry-level central government jobs. It recruits candidates for non-technical posts like Peon, Gardener, Helper, Watchman, and Safaiwala in various ministries and departments. Candidates must have passed Class 10 (minimum requirement), and the age limit is generally 18 to 25 years (up to 27 years for some posts, with relaxation for reserved categories). Conducted annually by the Staff Selection Commission, the selection process includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by a Physical Efficiency Test (PET)/Physical Standard Test (PST) for Havaldar posts only. There is no interview stage. The salary is based on Pay Level 1 (INR 18,000–INR 56,900), with an in-hand salary of around INR 20,000–INR 25,000 per month including allowances like DA and HRA. It is a good option for candidates seeking a stable government job with basic responsibilities and job security.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameSSC MTS (Multi-Tasking Staff)
Conducting BodyStaff Selection Commission (SSC)
Eligibility10th Pass from a recognized board
Age Limit18–25 years (up to 27 for some posts)
Posts OfferedPeon, Gardener, Helper, Watchman, Safaiwala, Havaldar
Selection ProcessCBT (Paper 1) + PET/PST (for Havaldar only)
Exam FrequencyOnce a year
Notification (2026)Expected around June–July 2026 (tentative)
Exam Dates (2026)Likely July–August 2026 (tentative)
Salary StructureINR 18,000 – INR 56,900 (Level 1)
In-hand SalaryINR 20,000 – INR 25,000/month (approx.)
Job TypeCentral Government, Non-Technical
InterviewNo Interview
Job BenefitsDA, HRA, TA, Job Security, Pension Benefits

SSC GD Constable

The SSC GD Constable exam is a well-known option under government exams after 12th for students interested in defence and security services. It recruits candidates for constable posts in forces like BSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, and Assam Rifles. Candidates must have passed Class 10, and the age limit is generally 18 to 23 years (with relaxation for reserved categories). Conducted annually by the Staff Selection Commission, the selection process includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT), followed by Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Physical Standard Test (PST), Medical Examination, and Document Verification. There is no interview stage. The salary falls under Pay Level 3 (INR 21,700–INR 69,100), with an in-hand salary of around INR 30,000–INR 40,000 per month, including allowances. It is an excellent option for candidates looking for an active, field-based government job with strong job security, respect, and growth opportunities.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameSSC GD Constable
Conducting BodyStaff Selection Commission (SSC)
Eligibility10th Pass from a recognized board
Age Limit18–23 years (relaxation for reserved categories)
Forces IncludedBSF, CISF, CRPF, ITBP, SSB, Assam Rifles
Selection ProcessCBT + PET + PST + Medical + Document Verification
Exam FrequencyOnce a year
Notification (2026)Expected around Oct–Nov 2026 (tentative)
Exam Dates (2026)Likely Jan–Feb 2027 (tentative)
Salary StructureINR 21,700 – INR 69,100 (Level 3)
In-hand SalaryINR 30,000 – INR 40,000/month (approx.)
Job TypeCentral Armed Police Forces (Field Job)
InterviewNo Interview
Job BenefitsDA, HRA, TA, Risk Allowance, Pension, Job Security

Railway Exams After 12th  

After completing Class 12, Railway Exams After 12th offer excellent opportunities for students to secure stable and well-paying government jobs in the Indian Railways sector through exams conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB), with a wide range of posts like Clerk, Typist, Ticket Collector, and other technical and non-technical roles, along with benefits such as job security, travel perks, and career growth.

RRB NTPC (12th Level)

The RRB NTPC exam is one of the most popular options under Railway Exams After 12th, offering posts like Junior Clerk cum Typist, Accounts Clerk, and Trains Clerk in Indian Railways. Candidates must have passed Class 12 (for some posts) and be aged between 18 to 30 years (with relaxation for reserved categories). Conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board, the selection process includes CBT Stage 1, CBT Stage 2, Typing Skill Test/CBAT (for specific posts), followed by Document Verification and Medical Examination, with no interview stage. The salary ranges from INR 19,900 to INR 63,200 (Level 2–5), and the in-hand salary is around INR 25,000–INR 35,000 per month. It is ideal for students looking for office-based railway jobs with stability and growth.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameRRB NTPC
Conducting BodyRailway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Eligibility12th Pass (for some posts)
Age Limit18–30 years
Posts OfferedClerk, Typist, Accounts Clerk, Trains Clerk
Selection ProcessCBT 1 + CBT 2 + Typing/CBAT + DV + Medical
Salary StructureINR 19,900 – INR 63,200
In-hand SalaryINR 25,000 – INR 35,000/month
InterviewNo Interview

RRB Group D

The RRB Group D exam is a good option under Railway Exams After 12th (minimum eligibility is 10th pass), recruiting candidates for posts like Track Maintainer, Helper, Assistant Pointsman, and Porter. The age limit is 18 to 33 years. Conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board, the selection process includes CBT, followed by Physical Efficiency Test (PET), Document Verification, and Medical Examination. The salary is under Level 1 (INR 18,000–INR 56,900), with an in-hand salary of around INR 22,000–INR 28,000 per month. It is suitable for candidates looking for secure government jobs with physical work responsibilities.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameRRB Group D
Conducting BodyRailway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Eligibility10th Pass
Age Limit18–33 years
Posts OfferedTrack Maintainer, Helper, Assistant, Porter
Selection ProcessCBT + PET + DV + Medical
Salary StructureINR 18,000 – INR 56,900
In-hand SalaryINR 22,000 – INR 28,000/month
InterviewNo Interview

RRB ALP (Assistant Loco Pilot)

The RRB ALP exam is another important option under Railway Exams After 12th (generally requires 10th + ITI or Diploma), recruiting candidates for Assistant Loco Pilot roles. The age limit is 18 to 30 years. Conducted by the Railway Recruitment Board, the selection process includes CBT 1, CBT 2, Computer-Based Aptitude Test (CBAT), followed by Document Verification and Medical Examination. The salary falls under Level 2 (INR 19,900–INR 63,200), with an in-hand salary of around INR 30,000–INR 35,000 per month. It is a great option for students interested in technical and operational roles in railways.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameRRB ALP
Conducting BodyRailway Recruitment Board (RRB)
Eligibility10th + ITI / Diploma
Age Limit18–30 years
Posts OfferedAssistant Loco Pilot
Selection ProcessCBT 1 + CBT 2 + CBAT + DV + Medical
Salary StructureINR 19,900 – INR 63,200
In-hand SalaryINR 30,000 – INR 35,000/month
InterviewNo Interview

Defence Exams After 12th

After completing Class 12, Defence Exams After 12th provide excellent opportunities for students to build a prestigious and disciplined career in the Indian Armed Forces, with options in the Army, Navy, and Air Force offering strong job security, respect, and growth.

NDA (National Defence Academy)

The NDA exam is one of the most prestigious options under Defence Exams After 12th, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for entry into the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Candidates must have passed Class 12 (PCM required for Air Force & Navy) and be aged between 16.5 to 19.5 years. The selection process includes a written exam followed by the SSB (Services Selection Board) interview, medical examination, and merit list. During training, candidates receive a stipend, and after selection, officers get a starting salary of around INR 56,100/month (Level 10). It is ideal for students aiming for a prestigious officer-level career with leadership roles and high respect.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameNDA (National Defence Academy)
Conducting BodyUPSC
Eligibility12th Pass (PCM for Air Force & Navy)
Age Limit16.5–19.5 years
ServicesArmy, Navy, Air Force
Selection ProcessWritten Exam + SSB Interview + Medical
Exam FrequencyTwice a year
Salary StructureINR 56,100/month (Starting)
Job TypeOfficer Level
InterviewYes (SSB)
Job BenefitsAllowances, Pension, Prestige, Career Growth

Agniveer (Army, Navy, Air Force)

The Agniveer (Army, Navy, Air Force) scheme is a popular option under Defence Exams After 12th, offering an opportunity to serve in the Indian Armed Forces for a 4-year tenure under the Agnipath Scheme. Candidates must have passed Class 10 or 12 (depending on the role), and the age limit is generally 17.5 to 21 years (may vary as per notification). The selection process includes an online/written exam, followed by Physical Fitness Test (PFT), medical examination, and merit list, with no interview stage. The starting salary begins at around INR 30,000 per month, increasing yearly, along with benefits like risk allowance, insurance cover, and a Seva Nidhi package (~INR 11.7 lakh) after completion of service. It is a great option for students seeking a short-term defence career with skill development, financial benefits, and future career opportunities.

ParticularsDetails
Scheme NameAgniveer (Agnipath Scheme)
Conducting BodyIndian Army, Navy & Air Force
Eligibility10th / 12th Pass (varies by role)
Age Limit17.5–21 years
Service Duration4 Years
Selection ProcessWritten/Online Test + PFT + Medical
Salary (1st Year)INR 30,000/month (increasing yearly)
In-hand Salary~INR 21,000/month (after deductions)
Exit Package~INR 11.7 lakh (Seva Nidhi)
Job TypeDefence (Short-Term Service)
InterviewNo
Job BenefitsAllowances, Insurance Cover, Skill Certificate

Coast Guard Navik

The Coast Guard Navik exam is a great option under Defence Exams After 12th for students who want to serve in maritime security and rescue operations. Conducted by the Indian Coast Guard, it recruits candidates for Navik (General Duty) and Navik (Domestic Branch) posts. Candidates must have passed Class 12 (PCM required for GD, while DB requires 10th pass), and the age limit is generally 18 to 22 years (with relaxation for reserved categories). The selection process includes a written/online exam, followed by Physical Fitness Test (PFT), medical examination, and document verification, with no interview stage. The starting salary is around INR 21,700 per month (Level 3) along with allowances like DA and HRA. It is an excellent option for students seeking an adventurous, disciplined career with job security and opportunities to serve at sea.

ParticularsDetails
Exam NameCoast Guard Navik
Conducting BodyIndian Coast Guard
Eligibility12th Pass (PCM for GD), 10th Pass (DB)
Age Limit18–22 years
Posts OfferedNavik (GD), Navik (DB)
Selection ProcessWritten/Online Test + PFT + Medical + DV
Salary StructureINR 21,700/month (Level 3)
In-hand SalaryINR 25,000 – INR 30,000/month (approx.)
Job TypeMaritime Defence
InterviewNo
Job BenefitsDA, HRA, Sea Allowance, Job Security, Pension

Other Government Jobs After 12th

Apart from SSC, Railways, and Defence, there are a few more options that students often consider.

Exam/PostCategoryEligibilitySelection ProcessSalaryJob Type
India Post GDSCentral10th / 12th PassMerit-based (No Exam)INR 12,000 – INR 14,500Rural / Postal
RPF ConstableCentral (Railway)10th / 12th PassCBT + Physical + MedicalINR 25,000 – INR 35,000Uniform / Security
Police ConstableState12th PassWritten + PhysicalINR 25,000 – INR 35,000Field / Uniform
Forest GuardState12th PassWritten + PhysicalINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Field
Clerk (State SSC)State12th PassWritten ExamINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Desk Job
Patwari / LekhpalState12th PassWritten ExamINR 25,000 – INR 35,000Field + Office
Village Panchayat SecretaryState12th PassWritten ExamINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Office + Field
Excise ConstableState12th PassWritten + PhysicalINR 25,000 – INR 35,000Field
Jail WarderState12th PassWritten + PhysicalINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Security
Home GuardState10th / 12thBasic SelectionINR 15,000 – INR 25,000Field
Stenographer (State)State12th + SkillWritten + Skill TestINR 25,000 – INR 40,000Office
Court ClerkState12th PassWritten ExamINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Office
Driver (Govt.)State10th / 12th + LicenseSkill TestINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Field
Gram SevakState12th PassWritten ExamINR 20,000 – INR 30,000Field + Office

Also Read: How to Get a Government Job in India After a PhD in Physics?

Stream-Wise Eligibility Guide: Which Govt Exams Are Open to You?

Before choosing any government exam after 12th, the first thing you should check is your stream. Some exams are open to all, but a few (especially technical and defence) require specific subjects like PCM.

StreamExams AvailableExams NOT Available
PCM (Science with Maths)All major exams including SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, Group D, plus technical & defence options like NDA (Navy & Air Force), Indian Navy SSR, Air Force Group X, Coast Guard Navik (GD), RRB ALPNone
PCB (Science with Biology)SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, Group D, Army Agniveer, Air Force Group Y, Coast Guard Navik (DB), State PoliceNDA (Navy & Air Force), Indian Navy SSR, Air Force Group X, RRB ALP
CommerceSSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, Group D, Agniveer (Clerk roles), Police, India Post GDSPCM-based technical roles like NDA (Navy/AF), Navy SSR, Air Force Group X, RRB ALP
Arts / HumanitiesSSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, Group D, Agniveer (GD), Police, India Post GDSAll exams requiring PCM or technical background

Salary Comparison: Which Job Pays More?

After Class 12, one of the most important factors while choosing between government exams after 12th is the salary and benefits offered by different jobs, as it helps you understand which career option provides better financial stability and growth.

Exam / Job RoleDepartmentSalary Structure (7th Pay Level)In-Hand Salary (Approx.)Job Type
NDA (Officer)Defence (Army/Navy/Air Force)Level 10 (INR 56,100+)INR 60,000 – INR 80,000Officer (High Prestige)
SSC CHSL (LDC/JSA/PA/DEO)Central GovtLevel 2–4 (INR 19,900–INR 63,200)INR 25,000 – INR 35,000Desk Job
SSC GD ConstableParamilitary ForcesLevel 3 (INR 21,700–INR 69,100)INR 30,000 – INR 40,000Field Job
Railway NTPCIndian RailwaysLevel 2–5 (INR 19,900–INR 63,200)INR 25,000 – INR 35,000Office/Field Mix
RRB Group DIndian RailwaysLevel 1 (INR 18,000–INR 56,900)INR 22,000 – INR 28,000Field Job
SSC MTSCentral GovtLevel 1 (INR 18,000–INR 56,900)INR 20,000 – INR 25,000Support Staff
Agniveer (Defence)Armed ForcesFixed PackageINR 21,000 – INR 28,000Short-Term Defence
Coast Guard NavikMaritime DefenceLevel 3 (INR 21,700+)INR 25,000 – INR 30,000Sea/Field Job

FAQs

Which government exams can I appear for right after 12th?

After 12th, you can apply for exams like SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, RRB Group D, NDA, Army Agniveer, Navy SSR, Air Force Group X/Y, Coast Guard Navik, RPF Constable, and State Police. Most of these are open to all streams.

Is the Agniveer scheme a permanent government job?

No, the Agniveer scheme is not a permanent job. It is for 4 years only. After that, only about 25% of candidates are selected for permanent service. The rest receive a financial package and need to plan other career options.

Can girls appear for NDA after 12th?

Yes, girls can now apply for NDA after 12th. This started after a Supreme Court decision in 2021. Both boys and girls can appear for the exam, but they must meet the same eligibility, physical standards, and medical requirements.

What government exams are available after 12th for Arts students?

Arts students can apply for SSC CHSL, SSC MTS, SSC GD, RRB NTPC, RRB Group D, State Police, India Post GDS, and some defence exams like Agniveer GD. Most exams are open to all streams, so Arts students still have many good options.

What is the age limit for government exams after 12th?

The age limit usually starts from 18 years. For most exams, the upper limit is between 23 to 27 years, depending on the exam. Some exams like RRB NTPC allow up to 33 years, and there are relaxations for reserved categories.

Can I prepare for multiple government exams simultaneously?

Yes, you can prepare for multiple exams together because most exams have a similar syllabus like Maths, Reasoning, English, and General Awareness. With proper planning and practice, you can apply for SSC, Railways, and Police exams at the same time.

Related Reads

SSC CHSL Tier 1 Answer Key 2025 Update & Download GuideBest Books For UPSC CMS: List and Tips To Prepare
Railway Jobs After 12th for Females in India (Complete List)How to Become an RTO Officer in India?
How to Become a Magistrate in India?Indian Army Agniveer: How To Apply

This was all about the government exams after 12th. If you’re serious about turning your creativity into a career, this guide should set you on the right path. For more such informative articles, keep following Leverage Edu.

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