Nagpur: In a first for Maharashtra, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) will deploy drone surveillance to monitor sensitive examination centres during the upcoming Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations. The move aims to ensure malpractice-free exams across the state.

Out of approximately 8,500 examination centres, 500 have been classified as sensitive based on previous incidents of malpractices. The initiative follows directives issued by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse. The School Education Department and the Maharashtra Board will oversee its implementation.

During a meeting with education officers, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik stressed the need for a strict anti-copying campaign. Authorities will enforce the Maharashtra Prevention of Malpractices Act, 1982, which imposes cognisable and non-bailable charges on those found aiding or abetting exam malpractices.

Additional preventive measures include the closure of photocopy centres within 500 meters of examination venues and the imposition of Section 144 to prevent unauthorized gatherings around these centres.

This unprecedented surveillance strategy underscores the state’s commitment to ensuring fair and transparent examinations.