Himachal Board introduces identical question papers, MCQs as Class 10 and 12 exams begin March 3

HPBOSE sets March 3 exam start, April 30 result target with major reforms in paper pattern

The Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE), Dharamshala, has announced the schedule and major reforms for the 2026 annual examinations, bringing clarity for students, parents and schools across the state. The announcement was made by Board Chairman Dr Rajesh Sharma during a press conference, outlining changes aimed at fairness, transparency and timely declaration of results.According to the Board, the annual examinations for Class 10 and Class 12, including those under the State Open School (HPSOS), will begin simultaneously from March 3. Besides adhering to its scheduled examination process, numerous other substantial changes have been made in terms of question paper schemes and evaluation systems.Identical question papers in all the seriesFinally, long lacunas that have been concerning both students and teachers have been taken care of by making question papers identical for all series. Every preceding year, various series such as Series A, Series B, and Series C had different levels of difficulties, making all examinees dissatisfied.In this system, all series will have similar questions with the order of questions changed. The Board stated that this step will ensure uniformity in assessment and strengthen the credibility of merit lists.Question paper pattern aligned with NEPIn line with the National Education Policy, HPBOSE has modernised the examination pattern to better prepare students for competitive examinations such as JEE and NEET. As part of this reform, 20 per cent of the total marks in each paper will be based on multiple choice questions.This would help students adapt easily to the new format, as the Board has already made model question papers as well as an exhaustive question bank available on its official website. These are aimed at familiarizing students well in advance of the examinations.Expected results by April 30The Board has planned to achieve its target and declare the results by April 30. To achieve this, special evaluation centers would be set up and the examination process would take place on a fast-track basis to declare the results on time. The Board has stated this would help students seek admission to colleges and there would not be any delay in counselling the national-level examinations either.Stronger monitoring, drastic action on cheatingIn order to preserve the integrity of the examination, all the examination centers would be monitored by CCTV cameras connected to the HPBOSE headquarters in Dharamshala. The Board has also deployed flying squads at sensitive and highly sensitive centres.Officials warned that any centre found involved in mass copying or serious misconduct will face cancellation of examinations, along with strict action against the staff concerned.Practical exams and roll number detailsPractical examinations will be conducted between February 20 and February 28. The Board will issue roll numbers and admit cards to schools through an online portal. Students have been instructed to reach their examination centres at least half an hour before the start of the paper to allow time for security checks and seating arrangements.The Board Chairman has appealed to students, parents and teachers to cooperate fully and help ensure the smooth and fair conduct of examinations.