Bhubaneswar, 15 January (H.S.) In a significant step to bolster examination security, the Board of Secondary Education (BSE) Odisha has introduced a digital locking system for the transportation of question papers. This system will be initially deployed during the upcoming Odisha Secondary School Teacher Eligibility Test (OSSTET) and later extended to the Matriculation Examination 2025.

BSE Odisha Vice-President Nihar Ranjan Mohanty announced on Wednesday that question papers would be distributed to 183 centres using these advanced digital security measures. The papers will be packed in tin boxes, secured with digital locks that can be opened through three methods: centrally, using a password, or via a chip.

Additionally, the Matriculation Examination 2025 will feature watermarked and QR-coded question papers. Each paper will carry unique identifiers that become visible when photographed or scanned with mobile devices. These markers will include crucial details such as the candidate's information, examination centre, and hall, ensuring enhanced traceability and security.

The decision to implement watermarking follows extensive consultations with national firms specializing in secure examination paper printing. Approved by the board's examination management committee, this innovation aims to eliminate incidents of question paper leaks. BSE President Srikant Tarai expressed confidence that watermarking will serve as a robust deterrent against paper leaks.

To further strengthen examination integrity, all test centres will be equipped with live-streaming CCTV cameras. These cameras will transmit real-time feeds to a central command office, where a team of 20 experts will monitor activities to ensure strict compliance with security protocols throughout the exams.

This multi-layered approach reflects Odisha BSE’s commitment to creating a secure and transparent examination process.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda