Mon Nov 18 17:13:30 UTC 2024: ## UP Board Exams 2025 Postponed Due to Kumbh Mela; AI Surveillance to Combat Cheating
**Prayagraj, [Date of Publication]:** The Uttar Pradesh (UP) Board has announced significant changes to its 2025 High School and Intermediate examinations, primarily due to the upcoming Kumbh Mela. To avoid conflict with the massive religious gathering (expected to draw 40 million pilgrims from January 13th to February 26th, 2025), the exams, originally scheduled for February, will be postponed to March.
This year’s exams will see a major technological upgrade in the fight against cheating. The board will deploy AI-powered surveillance systems, utilizing CCTV cameras and online monitoring at multiple levels (state, district, and headquarters control rooms). A budget of ₹25 crore has been allocated for this initiative, with tenders already issued for AI-based question paper security systems.
A total of 5,438,597 students (2,740,151 in High School and 2,698,446 in Intermediate) are expected to appear for the exams. The new UP Board secretary, Bhagwati Singh, a reputed officer known for his efficiency and integrity, will oversee the exams for the first time. His appointment followed that of Diby Kant Shukla in July.
The board is determined to ensure exam integrity and transparency, employing comprehensive measures to prevent cheating. The shift in exam dates is a key step in achieving this goal amidst the large-scale event of the Kumbh Mela.
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