Ahead of board exams, Maharashtra has formed an independent state-level vigilance committee to ensure effective implementation of copy-free exam campaigns along with ensuring a stress-free environment during Secondary School Certificate (SSC) and Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) exams.
This is a first ever such state-level initiative aimed at curbing malpractices and cheating during board exams. While district-level vigilance committees have been functioning under the chairmanship of district collectors, this state-level committee to be chaired by the Commissioner of Education will ensure a centralised mechanism for better coordination and monitoring.
As per the timetable declared by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) HSC written exams will be held from February 10 to March 18, 2026. Whereas SSC written exams are scheduled from February 20 to March 18, 2026. Launched in the year 2023, the copy-free exam campaign by the Maharashtra State Board is being strengthened every year with newer initiatives to ensure stricter vigilance.
As per the Government Resolution (GR) issued in this regard, the newest state-level committee’s primary responsibility will be to oversee the implementation of the copy-free exam campaign. Headed by commissioner of education, other members on the committee will include chairperson of Maharashtra State Board, special inspector general of police (all regions), additional commissioners from divisional commissioner offices, Director of Education among others.
The GR further listed out responsibilities of the district level-committees. “At the district level, vigilance committees reconstituted under the chairmanship of District Collectors will play a crucial role. These committees will be responsible for ensuring copy-free examinations, inspecting exam centres, verifying
facilities, identifying sensitive exam centres and ensuring CCTV surveillance there along with proper data storage of the footage,” stated the GR, further adding that drone surveillance and videography will also be used at sensitive centres, following the practice started from last year’s board exams. There will be flying squads for surprise checks at exam centres, while ensuring adequate police support at sensitive centres.
