Published: December 31, 2025
In a significant move to uphold the integrity of examinations, the Karnataka School Examination and Assessment Board (KSEAB) has announced that the II PUC (Class 12) practical examinations for the 2025-26 academic year will be conducted under live web streaming. This decision, aimed at curbing malpractices, also includes mandatory CCTV surveillance in all exam centers and direct online uploading of marks to the KSEAB server.
Why This Change?
Practical exams in subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and others have historically been vulnerable to irregularities, such as awarding marks without proper conduct of experiments or unauthorized assistance. Past allegations of inflated scores or exams not being held properly prompted the board to introduce stricter measures.
KSEAB is extending the web-streaming protocol—already in use for SSLC and II PUC theory exams—to practicals as well. Artificial Intelligence-enabled CCTV cameras will be installed in every center, allowing real-time monitoring from the KSEAB headquarters in Bengaluru. This ensures that exam activities are observed live, preventing unauthorized entry and ensuring fair evaluation.
Additionally, examiners will upload practical marks directly online from the centers, reducing opportunities for tampering post-exam.
The board has warned that no changes to the practical exam schedule will be permitted, and any shortcomings or complaints will lead to disciplinary action against responsible officials, such as Deputy Directors of Pre-University Education (DDPU).
What Does This Mean for Students?
For the thousands of II PUC students across Karnataka, especially those in the Science stream, this brings both reassurance and added responsibility:
- Greater Fairness: Genuine performers will be rewarded accurately, leveling the playing field.
- Focus on Preparation: Students must thoroughly prepare for hands-on experiments, viva-voce, and record submissions, as shortcuts will be harder under surveillance.
- Expected Timeline: Practical exams are likely to be held in late January to early February 2026, ahead of the theory exams.
While some may feel the pressure of being “watched,” this system promotes merit and discourages unethical practices that undermine hard-working students.
Building on Past Reforms
Karnataka has been proactive in exam reforms. Previous steps included CCTV surveillance during theory exams, special invigilation squads, and even randomizing practical exam centers (though the latter faced backlash and was reconsidered). The introduction of AI-enabled monitoring and webcasting reflects a tech-driven approach to maintaining exam sanctity—similar to measures that led to more realistic pass percentages in recent years.
A Positive Step Forward
This announcement on the last day of 2025 signals KSEAB’s commitment to transparent and credible evaluations. In an era where education quality directly impacts future opportunities, such measures protect the value of Karnataka’s PUC certification.
Students, gear up with confidence—perform honestly, and let your skills shine under the lens!
For the latest updates, visit the official KSEAB website at kseab.karnataka.gov.in.
What are your thoughts on this new system? Will it truly eliminate malpractices? Share in the comments below!