UP Board Examinations Kick Off with Massive Student Turnout
The Uttar Pradesh Secondary Education Board (UP Board) examinations officially began across the state on Wednesday, marking a significant academic event with over 49 lakh candidates participating in the first day's two shifts. Held in Prayagraj and spanning numerous districts, this annual assessment saw high school and intermediate students tackling Hindi papers under tight security protocols.
Detailed Attendance and Absentee Figures Revealed
According to official data released by the board, the first shift witnessed a robust attendance of 25,83,055 candidates out of 27,54,376 registered, resulting in 1,71,321 absentees, which accounts for over 6% of the total. In the second shift, 23,56,983 students appeared against 24,99,370 registrations, with 1,42,387 absentees, representing over 5.5%. Overall, the consolidated figures for the day show that out of 52,53,746 registered candidates, 49,40,038 appeared, leaving 3,13,708 absent. Board authorities have clarified that absentee data is compiled date-wise and subject-wise, with comprehensive statistics for the entire examination period to be released after all papers are completed.
Incidents of Malpractice and Security Breaches
Despite stringent measures, three candidates were caught using unfair means on the examination day. Two cases were reported from Hapur district and one from Bareilly, all involving high school examinees. Additionally, five First Information Reports (FIRs) were registered in connection with examination-related offences. Cases emerged from Agra, Fatehpur, Kannauj, Kaushambi, and Etawah districts, where one impersonator in each district was apprehended for attempting to appear in place of another candidate. However, divisional and district authorities confirmed via telephone and email that the examinations were conducted fairly, copy-free, and peacefully across all districts, with no untoward incidents reported.
Examination Schedule and Subject Details
On the first day, high school students appeared for Hindi and elementary Hindi papers in the first shift, while intermediate students took the Hindi and general Hindi examinations in the second shift. Official figures indicate that 27,54,376 candidates were registered for the high school Hindi exam, conducted at 8,033 centres statewide, and 24,99,370 candidates for the intermediate Hindi exam at 7,998 centres. From early morning, students arrived at various examination centres well before reporting time, often accompanied by parents and guardians, highlighting the importance of this academic milestone.
Enhanced Security and Transparency Measures
To ensure a fair and transparent examination process, strict security protocols were implemented. Students were allowed entry only after thorough checking of admit cards and identity verification, with frisking conducted by teachers and staff at entry gates. Police personnel were deployed outside centres to maintain law and order. This year, the Board introduced several innovative security features: answer booklets were printed in distinct colours, and teachers, invigilators, and staff were issued QR code-enabled identity cards. Mobile jammers were installed on a trial basis at 20 selected centres to block unauthorised communication. All centres are under CCTV surveillance with voice recording, supported by live monitoring through centralised control rooms. Question papers are secured in double-lock strong rooms with round-the-clock monitoring, while flying squads, static magistrates, and police personnel remain on active duty to enforce compliance and maintain a copy-free environment.
