CBSE Grants Special Hindi Exam Reappearance for Class 12 Students Affected by Holi Festivities
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New Delhi, March 16, 2025 – In a landmark decision reflecting its commitment to student welfare and cultural sensitivity, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has permitted Class 12 students who missed their Hindi board examination on March 15 due to Holi celebrations to reappear for the test. The announcement addresses concerns raised by students, parents, and educators about scheduling conflicts with the vibrant festival, which, while officially observed on March 14 across most of India, extended into March 15 in several regions due to local traditions and celebrations.
The Hindi Core (Code 302) and Hindi Elective (Code 002) examinations for Class 12 were conducted as per the original schedule on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at designated examination centers nationwide. However, the overlap with Holi festivities—marked by family gatherings, community events, and religious observances—prevented some students from attending. Reports emerged of students in states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Bihar facing logistical challenges, such as transportation issues or familial obligations, compounded by the festival’s extended celebrations in certain areas.
Responding to these concerns, CBSE Examination Controller Sanyam Bhardwaj issued a statement on March 16: “The board is aware that while the majority of students appeared for the examination as scheduled, a small section faced genuine difficulties due to the overlap with Holi celebrations. To ensure fairness and equal opportunity, we have decided to allow these students to take the Hindi exam on an alternative date.” Bhardwaj emphasized that this move aligns with CBSE’s existing provisions for students unable to attend regular exams due to participation in national or international sports events or other exceptional circumstances.
The rescheduling decision has been integrated into CBSE’s contingency framework, which already accommodates special cases. Students eligible for the re-examination will appear alongside those approved for alternative dates under the sports category. While the exact date for the rescheduled Hindi exam remains under consideration, CBSE has assured stakeholders that it will be announced shortly through its official website (cbse.gov.in) and circulars to affiliated schools. Schools have been instructed to compile and submit lists of affected students promptly to facilitate the process.
This development has sparked widespread appreciation among the academic community. Dr. Neha Sharma, a senior educator at a CBSE-affiliated school in Delhi, remarked, “This is a commendable step by CBSE. Holi is not just a holiday; it’s a deeply ingrained cultural event, and regional variations in its observance can’t always be predicted. Giving students a fair chance reflects the board’s adaptability.” Students, too, expressed relief. Priya Yadav, a Class 12 student from Lucknow, said, “I was torn between family celebrations and my exam prep. Knowing I can retake the test takes a huge weight off my shoulders.”
The ongoing CBSE board examinations for 2025 began on February 15, with Class 12 exams scheduled to conclude on April 2 and Class 10 exams wrapping up on March 18. Amid this packed schedule, the board has managed over 5,000 examination centers across India and abroad, catering to millions of students. The Hindi exam reappearance option underscores CBSE’s efforts to balance academic rigor with practical considerations, especially in a diverse nation where cultural festivities often intersect with academic calendars.
CBSE has advised students, parents, and schools to monitor official updates closely for the rescheduling details and application process. “We urge all stakeholders to avoid speculation and rely on verified information from our channels,” Bhardwaj added. As the board finalizes arrangements, this decision stands as a testament to its evolving approach to education—one that strives to uphold equity while respecting India’s rich tapestry of traditions.