In a landmark shift aimed at reducing exam stress and promoting student well-being, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has announced that Class 10 board exams will now be conducted twice a year starting from the academic session 2026. This student-centric reform aligns with the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes flexibility and holistic development in school education.
Under this new system, students will have two opportunities in an academic year to appear for their board exams. The better of the two scores will be retained and considered as the final result. This move is intended to give students another chance to improve performance, without the pressure of a one-time high-stakes examination.
Implementation Year: 2026 (for students entering Class 9 in 2025)
Applies to: Class 10 board exams (Class 12 may follow later)
Exam Frequency: Twice a year – most likely in March and July
Scoring: Students can appear in one or both attempts; best score will be counted
Curriculum: The syllabus will be divided semester-wise, reducing load in each term
Why the Change?
This initiative is a part of CBSE’s broader efforts to:
Reduce academic pressure and exam anxiety among students
Encourage continuous learning rather than rote-based, last-minute preparation
Give students more chances to succeed, similar to global education systems
Align assessment practices with NEP 2020’s vision of formative and flexible evaluation
Students will no longer have to depend on a single exam to determine their academic fate. With two chances, they can learn from the first attempt and work toward improvement. Parents can expect a more balanced academic year, where performance is tracked in phases rather than all at once.
Educationists and school principals have largely welcomed the decision, calling it a progressive and inclusive move. However, they also emphasized the need for adequate planning, curriculum restructuring, and teacher readiness to ensure smooth implementation.
CBSE is expected to release a detailed framework and guidelines later this year, including exam schedules, syllabus structure, and assessment patterns. The board may also conduct orientation sessions for schools, teachers, and students to familiarize them with the new format.
Aizawl, Mizoram – In a monumental achievement for the state, Mizoram has officially been declared a fully literate state, marking a significant milestone in India’s educational landscape. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Lalduhoma during a special ceremony at Mizoram University, Aizawl, a moment that will forever be etched in the annals of the state’s history.
This accomplishment has not only brought pride to Mizoram but also serves as a testament to the relentless efforts of the state’s government and citizens towards educational progress. Mizoram’s literacy rate now stands at an impressive 100%, making it the first state in the northeastern region of India and one of the few in the country to achieve such a remarkable feat.
At the event, Chief Minister Lalduhoma acknowledged the collective efforts of teachers, education officials, and local communities who have worked tirelessly to ensure that every Mizo, regardless of age or background, has access to quality education. He emphasized that this achievement is not just about statistics but about creating an environment that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and builds a brighter future for generations to come.
The journey towards Mizoram’s full literacy began long before this announcement, with concerted efforts spanning decades. Mizoram’s success story is a culmination of various state-driven initiatives, educational reforms, and a cultural emphasis on the value of learning.
Programs like adult education, teacher training, and the establishment of literacy camps in rural and remote areas have been pivotal in raising awareness and improving literacy rates. In addition, the state government’s focus on free and accessible education for all, particularly in rural areas, has been crucial in eliminating barriers to learning.
Over the years, Mizoram’s literacy efforts have been further bolstered by the active involvement of civil society organizations, NGOs, and local communities who have shared the vision of an educated, self-reliant society. In this context, Mizoram’s literacy programs have been tailored to meet the diverse needs of its people, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of knowledge.
Mizoram’s declaration as a fully literate state is not only a moment of pride but also a model for other states in India, particularly in the northeastern region. This achievement has a ripple effect across the country, reinforcing the importance of education in shaping the future of India’s youth.
By achieving such a high literacy rate, Mizoram now has the potential to unlock greater economic opportunities, enhance social equity, and improve the overall quality of life for its residents. Education is the bedrock of any prosperous society, and Mizoram’s achievement is expected to pave the way for future innovation, development, and progress in various sectors.
Mizoram University played a pivotal role in the state’s educational development, serving as a beacon of higher learning and research. The university has been instrumental in providing quality education to thousands of students from Mizoram and beyond. As the epicenter of intellectual growth, Mizoram University has fostered an environment that encourages academic excellence, cultural exchange, and holistic development.
At the event, university representatives also highlighted the increasing demand for higher education, vocational training, and skill development in the state, all of which are expected to contribute significantly to the state’s social and economic growth in the coming years.
While Mizoram has achieved a historic milestone, Chief Minister Lalduhoma emphasized that this is just the beginning. The next step involves not only maintaining the current literacy rate but also focusing on quality education, digital literacy, and preparing the state’s youth for future challenges in an increasingly globalized world.
The state’s educational policies are set to evolve further to include greater emphasis on digital skills, vocational training, and higher education, ensuring that every citizen is equipped to contribute to the global economy while preserving Mizoram’s rich cultural heritage.
Mizoram’s achievement of becoming a fully literate state is a shining example of what can be accomplished when governments, communities, and individuals come together with a shared goal of educational empowerment. This milestone not only highlights Mizoram’s educational success but also reinforces the country’s commitment to achieving universal literacy across all regions.
As Mizoram celebrates this historic achievement, the rest of India can look to this success as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that with determination, innovation, and collective action, anything is possible in the pursuit of education.
