Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Geotagged and timestamped photographs will be mandatory for the Class 10 and Class 12 practical exams conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) starting January 1, 2025.
These photos must be uploaded as part of the examination process, ensuring that each batch’s session is properly documented. The CBSE has confirmed the schedule for the practical exams, which will run from January 1, 2025, to February 15, 2025.
Schools have the flexibility to set their specific exam dates within this window, but no extensions will be granted. CBSE has clearly stated, “No extension of the dates shall be considered by the Board.”
Schools must adhere to the allotted time frame for conducting practical exams, and all marks, including those for practical and projects, must be uploaded by the final exam date for each category.
Detailed SOPs to Ensure Smooth Conduct of Exams
To facilitate the smooth and timely conduct of these exams, CBSE has issued a comprehensive set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and guidelines for schools, students, and parents. These protocols aim to standardize the examination process, maintain fairness, and ensure the integrity of the assessments. A key requirement for practical exams is the uploading of photographic evidence. Schools must submit a geotagged and time-stamped group photograph of each batch, which must include all students, internal and external examiners, and any observers. The photograph should be uploaded through the designated CBSE app link.
Strict Adherence to Guidelines for Fairness and Accuracy
The new SOPs emphasise the importance of accuracy and fairness in practical assessments. Schools and examiners are expected to follow the guidelines carefully to avoid errors and discrepancies.
In particular, CBSE stresses that marks should be based on individual components, including laboratory records, viva voce, projects, and practical work.
• Marks Submission Protocol: Schools are instructed to submit marks in integer values only, with no fractional marks accepted. Examiners are also advised to finalise marks on the same day as the examination, as corrections will not be allowed after the marks are uploaded.
• Digital Record Keeping: Schools are required to scan and store signed award lists digitally and securely, with records to be retained for one year after the declaration of results.
Zero Tolerance for Unfair Practices
CBSE has issued a strong warning regarding unfair practices during practical exams. Any attempt to manipulate the examination process—such as influencing examiners or altering marks after submission—will be classified as an Unfair Means (UFM) case, resulting in severe consequences.
Institutions or individuals found guilty of such violations will face strict action, and non-compliance with CBSE’s guidelines could lead to the cancellation of examinations and possible rescheduling under the Board’s supervision.
CBSE’s move to implement these stringent measures is part of an ongoing effort to ensure a transparent, accurate, and fair examination process, free from errors or biases. With the practical exams just around the corner, students, schools, and parents are advised to stay informed and comply with all the prescribed guidelines to ensure a smooth examination process.
