Uniform Question Papers, 20% MCQs, and April-End Results Planned: Board Chairman Dr Rajesh Sharma
Dharamshala: Ending months of anticipation for lakhs of students and parents, the Himachal Pradesh Board of School Education (HPBOSE) on Thursday announced the Annual Examination Schedule–2026 along with a major overhaul of the examination pattern.
Addressing a press conference in Dharamshala, HPBOSE Chairman Dr Rajesh Sharma said that the Class 10 and Class 12 examinations for both regular students and Himachal Pradesh State Open School (HPSOS) will commence simultaneously from March 3, 2026.
Dr Sharma described the changes as student-centric and reform-oriented, aimed at ensuring fairness, reducing stress, and aligning board examinations with national competitive standards.
Uniform Question Papers Across All Series
Highlighting a long-standing concern among students and teachers, Dr Sharma said that the board has eliminated disparities between question paper series (A, B, and C).
“Earlier, students often complained that some series were more difficult than others. To address this issue decisively, all question papers will now be identical in content, with only the sequence of questions changed through question shuffling,” he said.
The move is expected to enhance transparency, ensure fair evaluation, and strengthen the credibility of merit lists.
20% MCQs to Align with National Exams
In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) and to better prepare students for competitive examinations such as JEE and NEET, the board has introduced 20 percent Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) in all subjects.
To familiarize students with the revised format and reduce exam anxiety, model question papers and a comprehensive question bank have been uploaded on the board’s official website.
Results Targeted by April 30
Setting an ambitious timeline, Dr Sharma said the board aims to declare examination results by April 30, 2026.
“For speedy evaluation, special assessment centres will be established and the evaluation process will be conducted on a war footing,” he said, adding that timely results would help students avoid delays in college admissions and national-level counselling processes.
Strict Vigil Against Unfair Means
To ensure the sanctity of examinations, the board will implement centralized CCTV surveillance of all examination centres, monitored directly from the Dharamshala headquarters. Flying squads will be deployed at sensitive and highly sensitive centres.
Dr Sharma issued a stern warning that any centre found involved in mass copying or serious irregularities will face cancellation of exams and strict action against responsible staff.
Practical Exams and Admit Cards
Practical examinations will be conducted from February 20 to February 28, 2026.
Roll numbers and admit cards will be made available online for schools shortly. Students have been instructed to report to examination centres at least 30 minutes before the start of exams to facilitate security checks and seating arrangements.
Chairman’s Appeal
Appealing to students, parents, and teachers, Dr Rajesh Sharma urged collective responsibility. “Let us all work together to make this examination process smooth, transparent, and completely copy-free.
This examination festival should reflect discipline, integrity, and fairness,” he said.
