Maharashtra HSC Board Examinations Kick Off with Over 15 Lakh Candidates
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has officially commenced the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or Class 12 board examinations today, February 10, 2026. A staggering total of 15,32,487 candidates have registered to appear for these crucial exams across the state, marking a significant milestone in the academic calendar.
Exam Centres and Security Measures Under Scrutiny
The examinations are being conducted at 3,387 main centres, spread across 10,664 junior colleges. In a move to ensure integrity and fairness, the board has declared 248 examination centres as sensitive, based on reports of malpractice or other issues over the past five years. Nandkumar Bedse, the temporary chairperson of MSBSHSE, highlighted that 95% of these centres are equipped with CCTV cameras to monitor activities closely.
As part of the annual copy-free initiative, staff at 172 centres lacking CCTV coverage have been transferred to prevent potential irregularities. Additionally, the board has deployed 271 flying squads statewide and formed vigilance committees in each district, chaired by the District Collector, to conduct surprise visits and maintain strict oversight.
Candidate Demographics and Stream-Wise Breakdown
The gender distribution among candidates continues to show a skew, with 8,20,229 male students, 7,12,240 female students, and 18 transgender candidates registered. This imbalance reflects ongoing trends in educational enrollment patterns in the region.
Stream-wise, the registrations are as follows:
- Science: 7,99,773 candidates
- Arts: 3,80,692 candidates
- Commerce: 3,20,152 candidates
- Vocational: 27,378 candidates
- Industrial Training Institutes (ITI): 4,492 candidates
Enhanced Anti-Malpractice Protocols and Student Guidelines
To combat cheating, the board has intensified measures under the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act, 1982. Cases will be registered against anyone instigating, aiding, or directly involved in malpractices at examination centres. Furthermore, xerox centres will remain closed within a 500-metre radius of exam venues, an increase from the usual 100 metres, to prevent unauthorized material circulation.
Students have been instructed to arrive at their centres at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. Morning session candidates must be present by 10:30 AM, while afternoon session attendees should report by 2:30 PM. An additional 10 minutes will be provided at the end of each exam as per existing norms.
Mental Health Support for Exam Stress
Recognizing the pressure associated with board exams, the state board has appointed 10 counsellors at the state level and two at each divisional board for every district. These counsellors are available via phone to offer mental health support to students. Helpline numbers include: 9960644411, 7972573742, 9834984583, 9359978315, 8169202214, 9371661255, 7208421381, 7701956068, 8421159528, and 9404783996.
This comprehensive approach aims to ensure a smooth and fair examination process for all candidates, addressing both logistical and emotional challenges during this critical period.
