J&K: No More Class 11th Board Exam? Big Decision Expected in J&K
Srinagar, Sept 30 (ProKashmiri.in): What if students in Jammu and Kashmir never had to sit for Class 11 board exams again? The idea, which just a few years ago may have sounded far-fetched, is now at the centre of a major discussion in the corridors of power.
The speculation grew stronger after a high-level review of the education sector in J&K, where officials from the Union Government raised serious concerns about the current exam structure. With pressure mounting to ease the academic burden on students and align the system with the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), many believe the government is moving closer to a decision that could change the way students transition from Class 10 to 12.
And now comes the most striking update: during his visit to Srinagar, Union Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Sanjay Kumar, directed JKBOSE to reconsider the need for Class 11 board exams altogether. He clearly stated that the government should move towards removing the exam and instead focus on improving the quality of education, strengthening infrastructure, and reducing dropout rates.
A Meeting That May Change J&K’s Education Future
The big announcement came during a review meeting at SKICC Srinagar, chaired by Sanjay Kumar, and attended by top education officials from Jammu and Kashmir. The gathering included Secretary School Education J&K Ram Niwas Sharma, Director General School Education Kashmir GN Itoo, Director School Education Jammu Dr. Naseem Choudhary, and senior officers from JKBOSE, SCERT, and Samagra Shiksha.
The Union Secretary expressed concern over student dropouts, poor enrolment in government schools compared to private institutions, and gaps in infrastructure. He urged officials to strengthen pre-primary education, encourage vocational and skill-based learning, and ensure that every student continues in school until at least Class 12.
But the headline-grabbing part of his message was clear; “Do away with Class 11 Board Exams.”
Why Remove Class 11 Exams?
According to sources, the idea is linked to three major issues:
- Reducing stress – Students in J&K currently sit for Class 10, 11, and 12 exams within a short span. Experts say this adds unnecessary pressure.
- Ensuring continuity – Class 11 is considered a preparatory stage for Class 12, not a terminal exam. Making it a board exam has often disrupted learning flow.
- Bringing J&K in line with NEP-2020 – The National Education Policy suggests a focus on flexible learning, skill-building, and reducing “exam-centric” pressure.
If the proposal is accepted, Class 11 exams would be conducted internally by schools, and only Class 10 and 12 board exams would remain.
While the announcement is still at the proposal stage, news of the possible scrapping of the Class 11 board exam has already spread among students and parents across Kashmir and Jammu. Many students see it as a relief, while some parents are curious about whether this change would maintain the same standards of academic quality.
Teachers, on the other hand, believe this could give schools more room to focus on skill-based learning, practicals, and preparation for Class 12.
What Happens Next?
Officials from JKBOSE have said it is still “too early” to announce final changes, but discussions are ongoing. A final call will likely be taken after feedback from schools, parents, and education experts is compiled. For now, the idea has sparked a major debate; should J&K continue with Class 11 board exams, or is it time to scrap them altogether?
FAQs on Class 11 Board Exam Removal
Q1: Has J&K officially scrapped the Class 11 board exam?
No, not yet. The Union Secretary has recommended removing it, but the final decision will be taken by JKBOSE and the J&K Government.
Q2: Why is the government considering this move?
To reduce stress on students, improve learning quality, and align with NEP-2020 guidelines.
Q3: If removed, who will conduct Class 11 exams?
Exams would likely be held internally by schools instead of JKBOSE.
Q4: Will this affect Class 12 preparations?
Officials believe it will actually help students focus better on Class 12 since Class 11 will act as a preparatory stage.
Q5: Are parents and teachers supporting this idea?
Reactions are mixed; many welcome the move, while some want assurance that quality won’t be compromised.
Q6: When can we expect an official decision?
There is no fixed date.
Q7: Does this mean syllabus reduction too?
Not directly.
Q8: What about private schools; will the rule apply to them?
Yes, if Class 11 boards are scrapped, it will apply to all schools under JKBOSE in J&K.
This development marks one of the biggest possible changes in J&K’s education system in recent years. If implemented, it will not only reduce exam stress but also reshape how students prepare for higher education.
