UPMSP Reschedules Class 10 & 12 Exams in Prayagraj Amid Mahakumbh Festivities

The Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UPMSP) has postponed the Class 10 and Class 12 board exams scheduled for February 24, 2025, in Prayagraj due to the ongoing Mahakumbh Mela. The announcement was made by Gulab Devi, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Secondary Education, during a press conference in Lucknow. The decision was taken in view of the large number of devotees expected to arrive in the city for the religious event, which concludes on February 26.

Revised Exam Date

The postponed exams will now be conducted on March 9, 2025. According to the UP Board Date Sheet 2025, the exams affected by this rescheduling include:

• Class 10: Hindi and Healthcare papers

• Class 12: Military Science and Hindi papers

Originally, these exams were scheduled in two shifts — the first shift from 8:30 AM to 11:45 AM, and the second shift from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM. However, due to the Mahakumbh, which is attracting millions of devotees from across the country, the state government found it necessary to adjust the exam schedule in Prayagraj to ensure smooth management of both events.

UP Board Exams 2025: Key Highlights

This year, the UP Board exams will take place from February 24 to March 12, 2025, with a total of 54,37,233 students appearing.

• Class 10: Over 27.32 lakh students

• Class 12: Over 27.05 lakh students

• Total exam centers: 8,140 across the state

The state government has implemented various security and monitoring measures to ensure fair exams. A state-level control room equipped with 54 computers has been set up to track exam activities in real-time. Additionally, district and school-level monitoring will be conducted to prevent malpractice.

Strict Monitoring & Anti-Cheating Measures

Ahead of the exams, Gulab Devi inaugurated the state-level control room, which will oversee the examination process across the state. The government has reiterated its commitment to preventing cheating and unfair practices during the exams.

Strict anti-cheating measures include:

• CCTV surveillance at exam centers

• Biometric attendance for students

• Deployment of special squads to prevent malpractice

• Strict action against students and staff found aiding unfair means

The state government has warned that any student found using unfair means will face severe consequences, and strict action will also be taken against any official or staff member involved in exam misconduct.

Conclusion

The UP Board’s decision to postpone the February 24 exams in Prayagraj ensures smooth execution of both the Mahakumbh Mela and the board examinations. With over 54 lakh students appearing for the exams this year, the state’s control measures will help maintain transparency and fairness. Students are advised to stay updated with official announcements and prepare accordingly for the revised exam date.