UP Board Implements New Measures for Fair Class 10 and 12 Exams
UP Board's Commitment to Fairness in Exams
The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) has introduced a set of rigorous protocols aimed at ensuring that the Class 10 and Class 12 examinations for the academic year 2025–26 are conducted in a fair, transparent, and cheat-free environment. The board exams are set to commence on February 18, 2026, and the council is dedicated to upholding the integrity of one of the largest school examination systems in India.
Current Examination Preparations
Currently, pre-board exams are taking place throughout the state, while Class 12 practical exams will begin in two phases starting January 24. In preparation for these significant assessments, UPMSP has established new guidelines regarding student screening, handling of answer sheets, CCTV monitoring, and the management of practical exam materials.
Enhanced Security Measures at Exam Centers
A key update this year involves the security protocols at examination venues. To prevent cheating and the use of dishonest methods, students will now undergo thorough physical checks before entering the exam rooms. Fortunately for students, the board has confirmed that removing shoes and socks will not be necessary.
In previous years, students were often required to take off their footwear outside the examination hall, which was uncomfortable, especially during colder months. The new approach allows for screening to be completed at the entry point, enabling students to concentrate on their exams without unnecessary distractions. Importantly, after the initial checks, no further inspections will occur during the exam, ensuring a calm atmosphere in the classroom.
CCTV Surveillance and Examiner Accountability
To bolster exam security, UPMSP has mandated that all examination centers operate under constant CCTV surveillance. This initiative is designed to deter organized cheating and ensure strict oversight of both students and staff. Additionally, all examiners and invigilators will be required to display official identification cards, enhancing accountability at every level.
New Answer Sheet Regulations
Another important reform pertains to the management of answer sheets. This year, students are required to write their roll number on every page of their answer booklets, rather than just on the first page. Furthermore, the unique identifier of the answer sheet must be noted on the attendance sheet.
The responsibility for this process falls on the room invigilator, who will be held accountable for any lapses. This measure aims to prevent answer sheet exchanges by cheating groups. Once the attendance sheet is attached to the answer booklets, it will be nearly impossible to alter or replace copies, thereby protecting the integrity of student assessments.
Preservation of Practical Exam Answer Sheets
UPMSP has also introduced new guidelines for the Class 12 practical examinations, which are scheduled from January 24 to February 9. For the first time, examiners are instructed to safeguard practical exam answer sheets for at least one year.
These directives were officially communicated by Board Secretary Bhagwati Singh on December 31 and have been relayed to all District Inspectors of Schools (DIOS). Examiners are required to keep these copies and present them when necessary for verification or inquiry. Previously, there was no set timeline for retaining practical exam answer sheets, which sometimes led to administrative challenges during reviews or complaints.
Ensuring Integrity in Examinations
Through these extensive reforms, the UP Board has made it clear that cheating will not be tolerated in the 2026 examinations. From enhanced surveillance and stricter screening to improved answer sheet tracking and long-term preservation, every measure has been meticulously planned to ensure fairness.
As countless students gear up for one of the most significant academic milestones of their lives, these initiatives aim to foster a secure, transparent, and student-friendly examination system—one where merit prevails over malpractice.