The protest against Maharashtra’s uniform exam schedule for Classes 1-9, set from April 8-25, is growing, with the Maharashtra Rajya Prathmik Shikshak Samiti (MRPSS) supporting school trustees.
According to a media report, the rule, issued by SCERT, has sparked strong opposition, especially in Vidarbha, where the extreme summer heat could harm students. Liladhar Thakre, president of MRPSS’s Nagpur district chapter, called the decision “insensitive and bizarre.”
The government advises providing buttermilk and juice to students to combat the heat, yet insists on conducting exams in the peak of summer,” Thakre said.
He pointed out the contradiction between the government’s decision to conduct morning school sessions to prevent heatstroke and SCERT’s refusal to revise the exam timetable. “Exams for Classes 10 and 12 are completed by March or, at most, the first week of April. Yet, even primary students, including those in Classes 1 and 2, are forced to endure the intense April heat. What is the rationale behind this?” he questioned.
The Maharashtra Rajya Shikshan Sanstha Mahamandal (MRSSM) has strongly opposed the exam schedule. Joint Secretary Ravindra Fadnavis said they will send another letter to the education department, referring to the Right to Education (RTE) Act.
Earlier, MRSSM asked to cancel the circular and suggested officials from Mumbai and Pune experience Vidarbha’s harsh summer before making rules. Schools say their academic year usually ends by mid-April due to the heat.
With the weather department predicting more heatwaves, critics say the exam schedule ignores climate differences and poor school facilities, putting students at risk. Thakre urged SCERT to rethink the timetable for their safety.
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