Maharashtra State Board Introduces Biometric Attendance System for Students

The Maharashtra State Board has announced the implementation of a biometric attendance system for students in Class XI and Class XII, starting from the next academic year (2025-2026). The system will use either facial recognition or thumb impression to track attendance and ensure that students meet the mandatory 75% attendance requirement. This move aims to curb the culture of private coaching classes, where students often attend classes only for practicals and skip theory classes to attend coaching sessions.

Key Takeaways:

• The biometric attendance system will be implemented for Class XI and Class XII students in schools and junior colleges under the Maharashtra State Board.
• The system will use facial recognition or thumb impression to track attendance and enforce the 75% attendance rule.
• The decision aims to curb the private coaching class culture, where students often attend classes only for practicals and skip theory classes.
• Many students take admissions in junior colleges while simultaneously attending private coaching classes for competitive examinations.
• Some schools affiliated to CBSE are trying to implement an ideal system of coaching, where students found it beneficial.
• The proposal for biometric attendance was shot down initially due to opposition from parents, who feared it would burden their wards mentally and physically.

Statistics:

• 75% attendance requirement will be enforced through the biometric attendance system.
• Private coaching classes are becoming increasingly prevalent, with many students attending classes only for practicals and skipping theory classes.
• An estimated number of students attending private coaching classes is not mentioned in the source material.
• The system will start from the next academic year (2025-2026).

Sources:

• "The Hitavada"
• Contify.com