New Delhi, March, 2026 – In a major decision amid escalating global tensions, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has cancelled Class 10 and 12 board exams for students in conflict zones, including Ukraine, Sudan, and parts of the Middle East. The move affects over 15,000 Indian students abroad, with alternative assessments now in place to ensure academic continuity.
Announcing the decision today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasised India’s commitment to its diaspora youth. “Our students are our future; no child should suffer due to conflicts beyond their control. We’ve directed CBSE to implement fair, tech-enabled evaluations,” Modi stated during a virtual address from New Delhi. He highlighted immediate relief packages, including fee waivers and priority counselling for mental health.
CBSE Controller of Examinations Sanyam Bhardwaj detailed the steps: Exams scheduled from April 15 onwards stand cancelled in 12 identified countries. Students will receive grades based on internal assessments (40% weightage), pre-board scores, and AI-proctored online projects submitted by May 15. “This hybrid model maintains integrity while prioritising safety,” Bhardwaj said. Results will be declared by June 30, aligning with domestic timelines.
The policy stems from advisories by the Ministry of External Affairs, citing risks from ongoing Russia-Ukraine hostilities and Sudan unrest. Indian embassies are facilitating safe return for over 5,000 students via special flights, with the government covering costs up to ₹50,000 per family.
Education experts praised the proactive stance. “It’s a humane, innovative response that sets a global benchmark,” said Dr Rishi Raj, former CBSE advisor. Parents in Kyiv and Khartoum expressed relief on social media, tagging #IndiaStandsWithStudents.
CBSE has urged affected students to log into cbse.gov.in for personalised dashboards and helpline support at 1800-11-8004. This comes weeks after CBSE’s domestic exam schedule, underscoring adaptive policies in turbulent times.