Centre cancels CBSE class XII board exams
In view of the uncertain conditions due to COVID and the feedback obtained from various stakeholders, it was decided that Class XII Board Exams would not be held this year.
By Newsmeter Network Published on 1 Jun 2021 2:03 PM GMTHyderabad: The Central government on Tuesday announced that CBSE class XII board exams will not be held this year in view of the COVID-19 situation in the country.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a review meeting regarding the CBSE class XII board exams. Officials gave a detailed presentation on the wide and extensive consultation held so far and views received from all stakeholders, including state governments.
In view of the uncertain conditions due to COVID-19 and the feedback obtained from various stakeholders, it was decided that the class XII exams would be cancelled this year. It was also decided that CBSE will take steps to compile the results of class XII students as per a well-defined objective criteria in a time-bound manner.
Mr. Modi said that the decision was taken in the interest of students. He said that COVID-19 has affected the academic calendar and the issue of board exams has been causing immense anxiety to students, parents, and teachers, which must be put to an end.
He said that while the number of COVID cases is decreasing in the country and some states are managing the situation through effective micro-containment, some states are still under lockdown. Students, parents, and teachers are worried about the health of the students in such a situation, Mr. Modi said adding that students should not be forced to appear for exams in such a stressful situation.
The Prime Minister stressed that the health and safety of our students are of utmost importance and there would be no compromise on this aspect. He said that in today's time, such exams cannot be the reason to put our youth at risk.
Stating that all stakeholders need to show sensitivity to students, the PM directed officials to ensure that the results are prepared in accordance with well-defined criteria, in a fair and time-bound manner.
Referring to the wide consultative process, Mr. Modi expressed appreciation that a student-friendly decision has been reached after consulting all stakeholders from across India. He also thanked the states for providing feedback on this issue.
It was also decided that like last year, in case some students desire to take the exams, such an option would be provided to them by CBSE, as and when the situation becomes conducive.
The Prime Minister had earlier held a high-level meeting on 21 May which was attended by ministers and officials. A meeting under the chairmanship of Union Defence minister was held on 23 May which was attended by the education ministers of states. Various options for conducting the CBSE examinations were discussed during the meeting and feedback was obtained from the states and UTs.