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Dharamshala: After much anticipation from students and their families, the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) has officially released the Annual Examination Schedule for 2026, introducing significant changes to the examination format.

During a press conference in Dharamshala, HPBOSE Chairman Dr. Rajesh Sharma revealed that the Class 10 and Class 12 exams for both regular students and those enrolled in the Himachal Pradesh State Open School (HPSOS) will start on March 3, 2026.

Student-Centric Reforms

Dr. Sharma emphasized that these reforms are designed with students in mind, focusing on fairness, reducing stress, and aligning the board exams with national competitive standards.

Uniform Question Papers Introduced

Addressing a common concern among students and educators, Dr. Sharma announced that the board will standardize question papers across all series (A, B, and C). He noted, "Previously, students expressed that some series were more challenging than others. To resolve this, all question papers will now have identical content, with only the order of questions shuffled."

This change aims to improve transparency, ensure fair assessments, and bolster the credibility of merit lists.

Introduction of Multiple Choice Questions

In accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) and to better equip students for competitive exams like JEE and NEET, the board will incorporate 20% Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) in all subjects.

To help students adapt to this new format and alleviate exam-related stress, model question papers and a detailed question bank have been made available on the board's official website.

Results Expected by April 30

Dr. Sharma set an ambitious goal for the board to announce examination results by April 30, 2026. He stated, "To expedite the evaluation process, special assessment centers will be established, and the evaluation will be conducted with urgency." He added that timely results would assist students in avoiding delays in college admissions and national counseling processes.

Enhanced Vigilance Against Malpractices

To maintain the integrity of the examinations, the board will implement centralized CCTV monitoring at all exam centers, with oversight from the Dharamshala headquarters. Additionally, flying squads will be deployed at sensitive locations.

Dr. Sharma warned that any center found engaging in mass copying or serious irregularities would face exam cancellations and strict penalties for responsible staff.

Practical Exams and Admit Card Information

Practical examinations are scheduled from February 20 to February 28, 2026. Roll numbers and admit cards will soon be accessible online for schools. Students are advised to arrive at examination centers at least 30 minutes prior to the start of exams to facilitate security checks and seating arrangements.

A Call for Collective Responsibility

In his appeal to students, parents, and teachers, Dr. Rajesh Sharma urged everyone to take collective responsibility. He stated, "Let us collaborate to ensure that this examination process is smooth, transparent, and entirely free of cheating. This examination period should embody discipline, integrity, and fairness."