November 28,2024 - The Education Department of Rajasthan will conduct half-yearly exams for Classes 9 to 12 at the state level. However, the issued timetable has caused controversy due to its clash with the winter vacation period. The exams were initially scheduled from December 17 to December 27, overlapping with the winter holidays. As per the Shivira calendar, winter vacations are typically observed from December 25 to January 5, leading to confusion and protests from teachers and parents.

Revised Dates Announced

In response to growing opposition, the Education Department revised the dates. The exams planned for December 26 and 27 will now be conducted earlier, on December 14 and 16.

Winter Vacation May Be Adjusted

Education Minister Madan Dilawar hinted that winter vacations in government schools might not follow the usual schedule of December 25 to 31. He stated that vacations would only be granted if the cold wave intensifies, as extra holidays are often declared later due to severe cold.

Issues in Exam Schedule

Concerns have been raised about the lack of breaks between tough subjects, especially in the Science stream. Students face back-to-back exams in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Dr. Ashok Jat, state secretary of the Teachers’ Union (RESLA), called the schedule impractical.

Hike in Exam Fees

The All Rajasthan School Teachers’ Association (ARSTU) criticized the increased examination fees. For Classes 9 and 11, students are being charged Rs 40/- each, while Classes 10 and 12 students are charged Rs 20/- each.

Previously, under district-level exams, students paid a combined fee of Rs 10/- for half-yearly and annual exams. Under the centralized policy, fees have increased fourfold, amounting to approximately Rs 12 crore.

Teacher organizations and parents are urging the Education Department to reconsider the schedule and fee structure to ensure fairness and practicality for students.

Source:Media Reports