MUMBAI: In the backdrop of the CBSE deciding to cancel the Class X examination, Maharashtra school education minister Varsha Gaikwad said the state would weigh its options after consulting experts.
Earlier this week, the state postponed the HSC and SSC examinations to May and June. But most parents and students have demanded that the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education consider promoting students on the basis of internal assessments. “Now that the CBSE has said it will promote its class X students based on internal assessment or objective criterion, we will study the option and speak to experts to understand its viability,” said Gaikwad.
State board teachers in the city said their students would get a raw deal if exams are conducted. “In Maharashtra, all students compete for junior college seats unlike in other parts of the country where they usually continue in school after class X. If the CISCE also goes the CBSE way, state board students would be at a disadvantage while competing for college seats,” said a teacher.
Parents too have called for a uniform policy. “Since all students will compete on a common platform next year, they must be evaluated on similar lines. The central government must intervene,” said Anubha Sahai, member of the India Wide Parents Association.
Last year, the state board cancelled the last SSC paper (Geography) and awarded average marks based on performance in other subjects. CBSE and CISCE too cancelled a few pending exams and awarded marks based on internal assessment and papers students had appeared for.