Bhatkal: The Second PUC annual exams began today, Saturday, March 1, across Karnataka and will continue until March 20, with authorities ensuring strict transparency and adherence to guidelines. To curb malpractices, the education department has introduced webcasting surveillance across all exam centers, including those in Uttara Kannada district.
Webcasting, which enables live streaming over the internet, will allow real-time monitoring of exam proceedings. This initiative is expected to enhance transparency and prevent irregularities.
In Uttara Kannada district, a total of 13,974 students are appearing for the exams across 34 centers. CCTV cameras have been installed at all centers, and a district-level control room has been set up at the Zilla Panchayat and the Deputy Commissioner's office to oversee daily exam activities via webcasting. A nine-member committee has been formed to promptly report any issues or violations, which will also be linked to the central examination board.
To ensure the secure handling of question papers, 14 committees comprising tahsildars, Block Education Officers (BEOs), and senior principals have been formed. Under police supervision, question papers will be transported from the district treasury in Karwar and the sub-treasury in Sirsi to the respective exam centers. The designated committee heads will receive and distribute the question papers at the scheduled time. Mobile and local vigilance squads, appointed by the examination board, will conduct strict monitoring at exam centers.
Authorities have also ensured police security, medical supervision, and an uninterrupted power supply at all centers. Measures have been taken to maintain hygiene and provide essential facilities for students.
Unlike last year, when webcasting was implemented in two phases, this year, it will cover all three phases of the exams. Officials have conducted thorough checks to ensure smooth execution.
According to the Department of Pre-University Education, which released the final Karnataka Second PUC timetable for 2025, today's exams (March 1) include Kannada and Arabic papers. On Monday, March 3, exams will be conducted for Mathematics, Education, Logic, and Business Studies. The final paper, Hindi, will be held on March 20.
Additionally, students appearing for the Second PUC exams (March 1–20) and SSLC exams (March 21–April 4) will be provided free bus travel. The North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has announced that students can travel free of charge between their residence and designated exam centers by showing their exam hall tickets. This facility will be available for city, suburban, general, and express buses.