The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially launched the first phase of its annual psycho-social counselling initiative for students of Class 10 and 12. This free service, which begins on January 6, is designed to provide crucial emotional and psychological support to examinees as they navigate the pressures of the upcoming board examinations.
Comprehensive Support Network Activated
The counselling programme will run continuously until June 1, 2026, covering the entire period leading up to and following the CBSE theory exams. The board examinations themselves are scheduled to commence on February 17, 2026. A cornerstone of this initiative is a 24×7 toll-free Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) helpline at 1800-11-8004. This system offers round-the-clock assistance in both Hindi and English, providing valuable tips on stress-free preparation, time management techniques, answers to common queries, and essential CBSE contact details.
Direct Access to Trained Professionals
In addition to the IVRS, students and their parents can avail of personalised tele-counselling services on all working days from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. They will be able to interact with a dedicated panel of 73 trained experts. This panel is a robust mix of principals, counsellors, and special educators from CBSE-affiliated schools across the nation, alongside qualified psychologists. Notably, this support network has a global reach, with 61 counsellors based in India and 12 stationed in countries like Nepal, Japan, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, all offering their services voluntarily.
Digital Resources for Holistic Well-being
Recognising the digital habits of today's students, CBSE has also curated a suite of digital resources on its official website. These materials are crafted to be concise, engaging, and easily accessible, aiming to help students manage anxiety, adopt effective study strategies, and maintain overall emotional balance. The board has strongly encouraged both students and parents to actively utilise these services, reinforcing its commitment to promoting psycho-social well-being throughout the critical examination cycle for Classes 10 and 12.
This proactive step by CBSE underscores a growing recognition of the immense academic pressure faced by students and highlights the board's dedication to fostering not just academic excellence, but also the mental resilience and health of its learners.
