Lucknow [India]: Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of State for Secondary Education, Gulab Devi, has expressed confidence in ensuring a “cheating-free” UP Board examination for Class 10 and Class 12 students, continuing the efforts seen in previous years.
For the first time, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act 2024 will be enforced during the board exams, marking a significant step towards tackling malpractice in public examinations. The Act introduces stringent penalties for “cheating mafias,” including fines of up to ₹1 crore and life imprisonment, replacing previous provisions under the National Security Act (NSA).
Speaking to ANI, Gulab Devi stated, “Just like in previous years, we will ensure cheating-free board exams. This time, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024, has been passed. Under this, there are strict penalties, including ₹1 crore fines and life imprisonment for cheating mafias.”
Key Details of the Exams
This year, approximately 54.5 lakh students are expected to appear for the UP Board exams, which are scheduled to begin on February 24 and conclude on March 12.
- Number of Students: Nearly 54.5 lakh, including Class 10 and Class 12 candidates.
- Exam Centres: 8,140 centres have been set up across Uttar Pradesh.
Centralized Monitoring from Lucknow
To ensure transparency and prevent any malpractice, the state government has set up a centralized monitoring system in Lucknow. “Exam centres across the state will be monitored from our main centre in Lucknow to ensure there are no wrongdoings anywhere,” Gulab Devi added.
The state government’s efforts to conduct fair and transparent examinations are aimed at promoting trust in the education system while deterring organized cheating operations.