Prayagraj: A prolonged West Asia conflict could hit UP Board students hard as it might disrupt global crude oil supply, affecting a key material used for printing non-tearable certificates. This could lead to delays or shortages, impacting students’ documents.UP Board had introduced a new system last year under which students are issued marksheets printed on a durable, non-tearable and waterproof material. Board secretary Bhagwati Singh said this unique paper is made from the residue left after extracting petroleum products from crude oil. With the conflict impacting crude oil supply chains globally, including in India, agencies supplying this material are already under pressure.Since the tender for this year’s marksheets had been finalised before the escalation of the conflict, suppliers have provided non-tearable marksheets to more than 53 lakh high school and intermediate students. Officials indicate that agencies may have to bear financial losses to fulfil their commitments. Concerns, however, remain for the next academic cycle. If the geopolitical situation does not stabilise, sourcing this specialised material could become a significant challenge, officials said.Results likely between Apr 25-29UP Board is also gearing up to declare the high school and intermediate results between Apr 25 and 29. Last year’s results were out by Apr 25, with the evaluation wrapping up by Apr 1. This year, the evaluation finished on Apr 4, so results might drop around the same time in April end.In another important development, the board has set Apr 10 as the final deadline for corrections in student details such as names, parents’ names, subjects, and gender. The board has also directed all five regional offices to certify that no correction requests remain pending after Apr 10.
