Detailed instructions and roles of each official have been specified, and CDs carrying these have been provided to them, besides holding video conferences at district levels. Board chairman R K Pathak told reporters on Saturday that for the first time in its history, special voluntary squads consisting of awardee teachers and Class I and II officials have been formed for vigilation purpose during the examination process.

This apart, 200 samras centres for SSC and 100 for HSC have also been devised where routine squads will carry out sporadic checks, he said, adding that at the end of the examinations, these centres will be provided certificates of appreciation.

Pathak said that cases of copying and mass copying had come down in the past few years mainly because papers had become easy. This was also reflected in the overall improved pass percentages, he said.

He said copying in examinations had become more difficult because of the time factor. He said there will also be a blanket ban on allowing VIP guardians access to their wards in the examination halls this time. Pathak added that the state control room (phone number 07923259401) has, nevertheless, been activated for reporting copying or any other irregularities during the examinations. In a unique initiative, the Board has also launched a helpline for the aid of the examinees. He said so far the centre has received 7,781 queries since its launch on March 1 this year.

Pathak further said the board has also ensured that the exam dates don't clash with any competitive or entrance exams during the March 10-26 period.