Punjab Adopts On-Screen Marking System for Board Exams
Introduction of On-Screen Marking in Punjab
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has recently revealed plans to implement an on-screen marking system this year. Following suit, the Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) is also set to introduce this digital evaluation method for its board examinations. Punjab's Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, made this announcement on Friday, highlighting that the state will be among the pioneers in adopting a fully digital assessment approach, which is expected to revolutionize the evaluation of answer sheets.
Benefits of the Digital System
Faster and More Accurate Results
Minister Bains emphasized that the new digital system will allow educators to assess scanned answer sheets directly on computers. The software will automatically calculate scores, leading to quicker and more precise results. He noted that this system had already demonstrated its efficiency during the supplementary examinations in September 2025, where 23,000 answer sheets were evaluated swiftly and accurately.
Due to the positive outcomes, the PSEB plans to implement on-screen marking for one subject in the Matriculation examination this year, with plans to expand to additional subjects gradually.
Unique QR Codes for Security
Each Answer Sheet Will Feature a Unique QR Code
Minister Bains explained that the newly designed answer sheets will include a unique QR code on every page, facilitating secure scanning and digital processing.
Understanding On-Screen Marking
What is On-Screen Marking?
The On-Screen Marking (OSM) system involves scanning answer sheets in a secure setting and uploading them to a central dashboard. Examiners will review the sheets online, with marks being added automatically. A standardized marking scheme will be utilized, and progress can be monitored effectively.
Enhancing Transparency for Students
Transparency for Students
PSEB Chairman Amarpal Singh stated that this initiative will ensure uniform evaluation and complete transparency for students. He added that teachers will benefit from a streamlined digital system, which will help maintain consistency and accurate records.
Singh also confirmed that all technical and administrative preparations for the system's implementation in March have been completed, asserting that the OSM system reflects Punjab's dedication to its students.