In a significant step to tighten examination security, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has announced that QR codes will be introduced on students’ admit cards for the upcoming Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations. The move aims to curb the use of unfair means and enhance monitoring through a combination of QR codes, CCTV surveillance, and drone monitoring.
The HSC (Class 12) examinations are scheduled from February 10 to March 18, 2026, while the SSC (Class 10) exams will take place from February 20 to March 18, 2026.
According to the Board, scanning the QR code will instantly display the student’s details and examination centre information. This system is expected to benefit students, parents, and board officials by improving accuracy, transparency, and traceability.
Education experts have urged students to prepare diligently. Noted English teacher Aniruddha Joshi warned students against any misconduct and advised them to plan their studies early. Meanwhile, examination centres have been instructed to ensure all required facilities are in place to avoid penalties, including the risk of losing their recognition.
Stricter Rules for Examination Centres
This year, the Board has imposed enhanced requirements for examination centres to prevent incidents of copying. Centres lacking the following will not receive approval:
- Functional CCTV systems
- Drinking water facilities
- Toilets
- Protective boundary walls
- Mesh-fitted windows
CCTV footage must be preserved for 30 days, and drone surveillance will be deployed at sensitive and high-risk centres, especially those with a known history of malpractice. A Board official told The Hitavada that all CCTV footage will be reviewed after each exam to detect irregularities, unauthorised movement, or rule violations. Strict action will follow if any malpractice is detected.
A 15-day deadline has been given to centres that do not yet have CCTV installed. Physical and security inspections are underway, and each centre must submit a report before receiving final approval.
As part of a state-wide safety audit, the Education Department has already conducted inspections of exam venues in all districts. The findings will guide the final authorisation of centres, ensuring that only those meeting all mandatory norms are allowed to host the examinations.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com