Karnataka: Second PUC Board Exams Commence with Over 700,000 Students Under Strict Security
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Synopsis
The Second Year Pre-University College (PUC) board examinations commenced in Karnataka with over 700,000 students participating. The Karnataka government has implemented extensive arrangements to ensure a smooth exam process amid protests from Kannada organizations. Authorities have also introduced webcasting surveillance to monitor the examination closely.
Key Takeaways
- Over 700,000 students participating.
- Exams running until March 20.
- New webcasting surveillance system introduced.
- Strict security measures in place around exam centers.
- Authorities ensuring minimal disruptions from protests.
Bengaluru, March 1 (NationPress) The Second Year Pre-University College (PUC) board exams (Class 12) kicked off in Karnataka on Saturday.
Over 700,000 students are participating in these examinations, with the Karnataka government ensuring comprehensive arrangements for a smooth process.
Madhu Bangarappa, the Minister for Primary and Secondary Education, confirmed that measures are in place to facilitate the exams without any hassle.
In response to inquiries about Kannada organizations planning protests starting the first week of March due to an assault on an RTC staff member for not communicating in Marathi, the Minister remarked that these organizations have the right to protest, and authorities will ensure minimal disruption to students.
A total of 713,862 students are sitting for the exams, comprised of 335,468 males, 378,389 females, and five transgender individuals. In total, 1,171 examination centers are established. Furthermore, 2,342 local vigilance teams, 76 answer script evaluation centers, and 31,000 evaluators have been appointed for duty.
The examinations are scheduled to run until March 20. On the opening day, students are tackling exams in Kannada and Arabic subjects.
The Karnataka government has not yet reached a decision regarding the hijab situation, as it is currently sub-judice.
The prior BJP administration had determined that students would not be permitted to wear a hijab during exams.
Regarding the exam commencement, H. D. Kumaraswamy, the Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, sent his best wishes to the students.
He remarked, "I wish all children appearing for the second PUC exams in the state the best. Good luck to all 713,000 students taking the tests."
Union Minister Kumaraswamy added, "The exam is merely one phase of your life. Approach it with confidence and thorough preparation. There’s no reason to worry. May the blessings of Goddess Saraswati empower you to achieve your aspirations."
B. Y. Vijayendra, the State BJP President, extended his best wishes to all students statewide participating in the second PUC exams. He encouraged them to approach the exam with confidence and preparation to attain excellent marks and a bright future. "When there is complete effort toward the goal, hard work is always rewarded. Wishing everyone the best!"
Former CM and BJP MP Basavaraj Bommai also conveyed his best wishes, stating, "I wish all my dear students across the state who are appearing for the second PUC exams starting today the best. Approach the exam with confidence and courage, free from pressure. May success be yours. Best of luck, dear students!"
For the first time, the Education Department has implemented a webcasting surveillance system for the Class 12 examination. This follows last year’s webcasting for the SSLC (Class 10) exams. This new system will allow the department to closely monitor exam activities.
The Education Department has indicated that this measure is intended to curb malpractices during the examination.
Authorities have enacted prohibitory orders within a 200-meter radius of the examination centers. The department has also arranged for the complete video recording of the entire procedure, starting from the transportation to the arrival of question papers at the examination centers.
