Maharashtra Board to Reduce HSC and SSC Exam Paper Size by 60%
New Format for Question Papers
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) is set to implement significant changes to the format of its Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examination papers. The board will reduce the length of question papers from the current 10-11 pages to just three or four pages, printed on both sides. This transition aims to significantly lower the annual costs associated with printing.
According to board chairperson Trigun Kulkarni, the move is projected to decrease the board’s annual printing expense by 60%, resulting in a savings of approximately Rs 18 crore out of the total Rs 30 crore currently spent each year. Kulkarni emphasized the dual benefits of this initiative, noting that it not only minimizes costs but also serves an environmental purpose by reducing paper consumption.
Improved Clarity and Navigation for Students
The redesigned question papers are expected to enhance the examination experience for students. The new layout will improve the visibility of marks, create a better sequence for questions, and group related sub-parts on the same page. These adjustments intend to facilitate quicker navigation during exams, thereby alleviating some of the pressures that students face when managing extensive question papers.
The implementation of the new paper format is planned for the 2026-27 academic year examinations, with the board aiming to provide a more streamlined and efficient testing experience.
Proposed Amendments to Exam Regulations
In addition to the changes to the examination papers, the board is also advocating for amendments to the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act, established in 1982. While the current legislation addresses issues such as paper leaks and cheating, the proposed amendments seek to introduce further offenses related to the examination process. This includes provisions to penalize tampering with answer sheets and addressing irregularities in re-evaluation processes.
The MSBSHSE asserts that these tougher regulations will serve as a deterrent to examination fraud, contributing to a fairer assessment environment for all students across the state.
