In a significant move to ensure the integrity of its crucial board examinations, the Maharashtra government has established a first-of-its-kind state-level vigilance committee. This centralized body will spearhead the implementation of a strict copy-free exam campaign for the upcoming Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams scheduled for 2026.
A Centralized Command for Exam Integrity
While district-level committees, led by collectors, have been operational, the new state committee marks a strategic shift towards enhanced coordination. The committee will be chaired by the Commissioner of Education, creating a unified command structure. This initiative aims to plug gaps and establish a robust, centralized mechanism for monitoring and executing anti-cheating measures across all districts simultaneously.
The decision was formalized through a Government Resolution (GR). The committee's composition includes high-ranking officials to ensure multi-departmental synergy. Key members are the Chairperson of the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE), the Special Inspector General of Police (all regions), additional commissioners from divisional commissioner offices, and the Director of Education, among others.
Enhanced Surveillance and District-Level Duties
The GR clearly delineates the roles for both the new state panel and the reconstituted district committees. The primary mandate of the state-level committee is to oversee the effective implementation of the copy-free exam campaign that was originally launched in 2023 and has been strengthened annually.
At the district level, committees under the District Collectors will have hands-on responsibilities. Their tasks include:
- Inspecting examination centers and verifying necessary facilities.
- Identifying and designating sensitive examination centers.
- Ensuring functional CCTV surveillance at all centers with proper data storage of footage.
- Coordinating surprise checks by flying squads.
- Arranging adequate police support at sensitive locations.
Building on a practice started last year, the state will again employ drone surveillance and videography at sensitive exam centers, adding a technological layer to the vigilance framework.
Exam Schedule and the Road Ahead
The formation of this committee comes ahead of the board exam cycle for 2026. As per the timetable released by the MSBSHSE, the HSC written exams are set to run from February 10 to March 18, 2026. The SSC written exams will be held from February 20 to March 18, 2026.
This proactive step by the Maharashtra government underscores its commitment to providing a fair and stress-free examination environment for millions of students. By creating a high-powered, centralized watchdog, the state aims to deter malpractices more effectively and uphold the credibility of its board examinations.
