UP Board Examinations Commence with Strict Oversight

The UP Board of Secondary Education has launched its high school and intermediate examinations, marking the largest board exam in Asia. With over 5.2 million candidates registered, strict measures are in place to prevent cheating and ensure a smooth examination process. Despite the high registration numbers, a significant number of students were absent in the initial days. The administration is actively monitoring the situation, with special attention given to sensitive examination centers. Read on for detailed statistics and updates on the ongoing examinations.

By Ambika Singh Feb 21, 2026, 13:49 IST

Overview of the UP Board Examinations

The high school and intermediate examinations conducted by the UP Board of Secondary Education have officially started, taking place under rigorous supervision across 75 districts in the state. This event is recognized as the largest board examination in Asia.

This year, a staggering 5,253,746 candidates registered to participate at 8,033 examination centers. However, over 300,000 students were absent during the first two days of the exams. The administration has implemented extensive measures to deter cheating and maintain a peaceful examination environment.

Examination Statistics

Out of the total registered candidates, 4,940,038 students attended the exams, while 313,708 students were absent, indicating a significant dropout rate.

For the high school examination, 2,754,376 students registered, with 2,583,055 appearing and 171,321 not attending. The Hindi and Elementary Hindi exams were held in the morning shift on the first day.

In the intermediate examination, 2,499,370 students registered, with 2,356,983 appearing and 142,387 absent. The Hindi and General Hindi exams took place in the second shift.

Cheating Incidents and Security Measures

On the first day, three students were apprehended for using prohibited items during the high school examination, with two caught in Hapur and one in Bareilly. No incidents of cheating were reported during the intermediate examination on that day.

Additionally, five impersonators were caught taking the exam for others in Fatehpur, Kannauj, Kaushambi, and Etawah, leading to FIRs filed against them under the Uttar Pradesh Public Examinations Act 2024.

The second day of examinations also saw strict supervision, although one intermediate student in Azamgarh was caught cheating. So far, four students have been caught cheating, and six FIRs have been filed according to the Board Secretary.

Special Supervision in Prayagraj

In Prayagraj, the board examinations are being conducted with special oversight. The district has been divided into eight zones and 33 sectors, with examinations taking place at 333 centers.

Eight mobile teams, along with zonal and sector magistrates, are actively monitoring the centers. Furthermore, 11 sensitive and eight highly sensitive centers have been identified, with question papers and answer sheets secured in strong rooms featuring double-locked cupboards. All centers are under live surveillance from the DIOS office.