Maharashtra Board Exams to Implement Video Conferencing for Enhanced Surveillance
The Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) has announced a novel approach to monitor select Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) board exam centers this year. In a bid to curb malpractice, video conferencing applications such as Zoom and Google Meet will be utilized for real-time surveillance at designated locations across the state.
Live Access to Exam Centers via Video Links
According to Nandkumar Bedse, the interim chairperson of MSBSHSE, this technology provides district officials with live access to footage from exam centers, offering a more dynamic monitoring solution compared to traditional CCTV systems. "If deemed necessary by the District Vigilance Committee, such video conferencing can be used to keep a watch over any examination center under their jurisdiction," Bedse stated. This initiative builds on a successful pilot conducted in Dhule district last year, which has encouraged more districts to adopt the method.
Targeted Implementation Across Multiple Districts
This year, the surveillance will be expanded to include the entire Sangli district, along with parts of Hingoli, Beed, and South Mumbai districts. Out of the total 3,387 exam centers in Maharashtra, 172 lack CCTV cameras, and staff at these centers have already been transferred as a precautionary measure. Bedse explained the rationale behind not making video conferencing compulsory in centers without CCTVs: "The situation is that if Google Meet has to be done then we have to allow the examiners to carry mobiles. Our rule is that mobiles are not allowed. But if the committee decides that it is required in their area then it can be done. Otherwise in general it is not allowed."
Deterrence Against Cheating and Outsider Interference
The use of video conferencing aims to create a strong deterrent effect against cheating attempts. "It has a deterrence effect to ensure that no outsider comes in. Otherwise, people climb outside the windows to help students cheat. We get such photos as well. We have made it clear to education officers that if we get such photos then action will be taken against officials," Bedse emphasized. This proactive measure is part of a broader anti-copy initiative by the state government.
Additional Anti-Copy Measures: Sensitive Centers and Flying Squads
In addition to the video surveillance, the state government has declared 248 centers as sensitive due to a history of malpractice. These centers will be under heightened scrutiny during the exams. Furthermore, 271 flying squads have been appointed throughout Maharashtra to conduct random checks and ensure compliance with exam regulations. This multi-pronged approach underscores the government's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the board examination process.
Background and Context
The decision to integrate technology into exam monitoring reflects a growing trend in educational administration to leverage digital tools for transparency and security. The MSBSHSE's move aligns with efforts to adapt to evolving challenges in exam conduct, particularly in regions prone to irregularities. As board exams are a critical milestone for students, ensuring a fair and secure environment is paramount to upholding academic standards and trust in the education system.
This initiative is expected to set a precedent for other states considering similar technological interventions in their examination processes. With the increasing availability of video conferencing platforms, such measures could become more widespread, offering a cost-effective and efficient means of surveillance.
