Mohali: The Punjab School Education Board (PSEB) has rolled out extensive technological and administrative reforms to ensure the smooth, transparent and secure conduct of the 2026 board examinations across the state by introducing barcoded answer sheets and digital tracking to strengthen exam integrity. More than 8 lakh students are set to appear in Classes 8, 10 and 12 examinations this year. Dr Amarpal Singh, chairman of PSEB, on Wednesday announced the introduction of the newly-launched Monitoring and Tracking of Question Papers app (MATQ App), an advanced digital tracking system designed to monitor the secure movement of confidential question papers. The app tracks transportation from PSEB headquarters to designated banks for safe custody, and subsequently to examination centres. He said photographic evidence is mandatorily uploaded at the time of handing over and receiving sealed question paper packets. “The application captures GPS coordinates and automatically verifies them against pre-saved authorised locations, ensuring end-to-end accountability and eliminating the possibility of tampering or discrepancies. A dedicated Control Room is also being established at the PSEB Head Office to address grievances and monitor examination-related issues in real time,” Singh said. To facilitate students, roll number slips were issued with clearly mapped examination centres, enabling candidates to locate their venues well in advance and avoid last-minute confusion. For maintaining strict discipline and secrecy, observers will be deputed for crucial examinations. Additionally, more than 300 flying squads were constituted across Punjab to curb unfair means.In another significant measure, answer sheets will be distributed in a regulated manner at examination centres. PSEB is also introducing barcoded answer sheets, which will conceal candidates’ identities during the evaluation process and ensure unbiased marking. Dr Singh further informed that practical examinations are being conducted through external examiners for the first time as part of assessment reforms. The practical exams, scheduled from February 2 to February 12, are progressing smoothly.The board has established approximately 2,366 examination centres across Punjab. This year, 2,77,316 students will appear for Class 8 examinations, 2,72,560 students for Class 10, and 2,68,794 students for Class 12. The Class 8 and Class 12 examinations will commence on Feb 17, while Class 10 examinations will begin on March 6. With the integration of digital tracking, barcoding, external evaluation and strict monitoring mechanisms, PSEB aims to uphold the highest standards of transparency, security and fairness in the conduct of the 2026 board examinations. MSID: 128207981 413 |
