Stating this year, SSC students who will score highest in Marathi first language and Marathi second language will be awarded cash prizes.

According to a press note from the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE), the state topper in Marathi first language will get Rs 10,000 cash prize called as "Natyacharya Krishnaji Prabhakar Khadilkar" Award.

First three state toppers in Marathi second language will be awarded Rs 5000, Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 cash prizes respectively all called as "Agralekhanche badshah Neelkanth Khadilkar" Award.

The cash prizes will be given from a donation by Neelkanth Khadilkar, editor of a Marathi daily, Nava Kal. The aim is to motivate students good in Marathi language that will ultimately contribute in conservation of the language, the press note stated.

The board has also stated that HSC practical, oral and grade examination will be held from February 6 to 24 followed by the written examination from February 26 to March 21, while SSC practical, oral and grade examination will be held from February 12 to February 28 and written examination from March 5 to March 23. The detailed timetable is available on www.msbshse.ac.in