Maharashtra Sees Sharp Drop In SSC Cheating; Open Book Exam Debate Gains Momentum

The number of cheating cases recorded during this year’s Secondary School Certificate (SSC) examinations in Maharashtra has witnessed a sharp drop, falling from 143 cases in 2024 to 93 in 2025, according to data shared by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE). While senior officials hailed the success of the government’s ‘copy-free exam’ campaign, experts have reignited the discussion around the long-term solution of introducing open book examinations.

The ‘copy-free exam’ initiative — introduced by the state government with stricter invigilation, increased flying squads, and enhanced digital monitoring — appears to have significantly reduced instances of malpractice. “Only 93 cases of cheating were registered during the SSC exams this year, a marked decline from last year. It’s a result of improved surveillance and tighter exam room protocols,” said a senior MSBSHSE official.

However, the officials in the school education ministry admitted that the true number of malpractice cases may be higher, suggesting that while detection has improved, some cases could still go unreported or undetected.

In light of the recurring challenges, several education experts believe that the very format of examinations needs to evolve. Former state Director of Education, Vasant Kalpande, advocated for a structured transition to open book exams. “If implemented thoughtfully, open book examinations can significantly reduce the temptation to cheat. They encourage students to engage more deeply with their learning material rather than memorising it blindly,” Kalpande told The Free Press Journal.

Despite these advantages, senior board officials remain sceptical about the feasibility of such a shift. MSBSHSE Chairperson Sharad Gosavi acknowledged the concept’s merit but voiced apprehension about its execution. “An open book exam is not a flawed idea in itself. But if students begin to rely on guides and solution books instead of textbooks and reference materials, the purpose is defeated. Who will be held accountable then?” he questioned.

Gosavi further emphasised that the Board’s current priority is to instil academic integrity and reduce students’ dependence on unfair means. “Our goal is to foster a genuine learning culture. That is why we’re concentrating our efforts on curbing malpractices and improving monitoring mechanisms.”

While there is consensus that innovative reforms like open book exams may offer long-term benefits, the immediate focus remains on strengthening exam conduct. The debate, however, underscores a larger shift — from policing students to transforming the way learning is assessed in Maharashtra’s classrooms.