The newly introduced On-Screen Marking (OSM) system for evaluating CBSE Class 12 answer sheets has sparked widespread debate among students and teachers alike. Implemented for the first time in the board examination evaluation process, the system has raised concerns regarding its practicality and effectiveness.

The controversy stems from the shift away from the traditional method of physically examining answer scripts. Under the OSM system, evaluators no longer directly handle hard copies of answer sheets. Instead, the scripts are scanned and converted into digital images, which are then uploaded to a computer-based platform for assessment.

OSM is essentially a digital evaluation mechanism where students’ answer sheets are stored electronically, allowing teachers and examiners to review and grade the responses online using computers or laptops.

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However, several teachers and students have reportedly raised concerns about the transition. They argue that assessing scanned copies on screens may compromise the ease and accuracy of evaluation compared to traditional manual checking, potentially affecting the overall quality of assessment. The debate continues as stakeholders weigh the benefits of digitization against the challenges of adapting to a fully online marking system.

“Around 98 lakh CBSE Class 12 answer sheets have been scanned and converted into PDFs. A three-level security system has been implemented to ensure the quality and legibility of the scanned copies. The answer sheets have also undergone security checks to enable their safe transmission to any location. The OSM system facilitates the evaluation of answer sheets beyond the jurisdiction of regional offices, ensuring greater transparency and objectivity in the assessment process,” said Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Education, Government of India.