Zero Tolerance for Cheating: Punjab Launches Historic MATQ App + Flying Squads for 8.18 Lakh Students’ Board Exams
Chandigarh, 18 February
The Bhagwant Mann-led Punjab Government has implemented robust measures to ensure fair, transparent, and malpractice-free board examinations for over 8.18 lakh students appearing in Classes 8, 10, and 12.
Key Highlights from Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains:
- A total of 6,792 examination centres have been established statewide: 2,307 for Class 8, 2,367 for Class 10, and 2,118 for Class 12.
- More than 5,600 officials are deployed on the ground, including 2,469 Superintendents and 3,193 Deputy Superintendents, to oversee smooth operations.
- 384 flying squads, including 111 special teams, are actively conducting surprise inspections to prevent cheating and irregularities.
- The innovative MATQ App (Monitoring and Tracking of Question Papers) — a first-of-its-kind initiative — enables real-time tracking of question papers from distribution to exam centres, virtually eliminating leakage risks through advanced digital monitoring.
- Section 144 has been strictly imposed within a 100-metre radius of all exam centres to prohibit unauthorised gatherings and maintain a secure, disciplined environment.
These steps reflect the government’s strong commitment to transparent and accountable education governance, creating a level playing field for all students.
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As exams commence across Punjab, Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains extended warm wishes: “Examinations are a celebration of knowledge. I urge every student to appear fearlessly, confidently, and with complete honesty. Your sincere efforts today will shape a brighter future for you and contribute to Punjab’s progress.”
The Bhagwant Mann Government’s vision for a transparent education system is clearly materialising, with technology and strict enforcement combining to safeguard the integrity of the process. Best wishes to all students for success in their exams!
