On Tuesday, A crucial high-level review meeting was chaired by PM Narendra Modi from 5:30 P.M. The meet was organized to take a final call for Class 12 board exams conducted by CBSE and other state boards. In the meeting, PM Modi was given a briefing of all the possible options that could be given to class 12 students. An elaborate presentation on the wide and extensive consultation held till now was given by the officials. All the views coming from stakeholders, including state governments were also taken into consideration.

Given the uncertainties that come with the COVID-19 Pandemic, it was decided to call off the process of conducting the Class 12 board exam this year too. PM Modi said that the decision had been taken in the interest of students. The results will now be announced according to ‘well-defined objective criteria’ in a time-bound manner as per the decision taken mutually by PM Modi, Union ministers, and other officials.

A Tweet on the same came from PM Modi. It read, “Government of India has decided to cancel the Class XII CBSE Board Exams. After extensive consultations, we have taken a decision that is student-friendly, one that safeguards the health as well as future of our youth.”PM Modi also said the prevailing Covid-19 situation is a dynamic situation across the country. While the numbers are coming down in the country and some states are managing the situation through effective micro-containment, some states have still opted for a lockdown. Students, parents, and teachers are naturally worried about the health of the students in such a situation.

“The health and safety of our students are of utmost importance and there would be no compromise on this aspect. Students should not be forced to appear for exams in such stressful conditions. The issue of Board Exams has been causing immense anxiety among students, parents, and teachers, which must be put to an end,” said the PM. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has appreciated the decision given by PM Modi. In his statement, he said, “I am glad 12th exams have been canceled. All of us were very worried about the health of our children. A big relief.”

An option to give exams was also given to some students who desire to take the exams. But it would only be provided by CBSE after the pandemic situation finds calm. A similar decision for class 10 board exams came from CBSE on April 14.