CBSE to Continue With COEMPT Eduteck for Class 12 Answer Script Re-Evaluation and Scanning Process

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will continue using Hyderabad-based COEMPT Eduteck Pvt Ltd for scanning Class 12 answer sheets and managing the re-evaluation process through its On-Screen Marking (OSM) platform, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The decision comes amid discussions surrounding the board's digital evaluation system and concerns raised about the tendering process associated with the OSM contract. CBSE officials have indicated that the existing platform will remain in use for the ongoing re-evaluation and verification process while additional security measures have been implemented to safeguard student data.

CBSE Continues With Existing OSM Platform

The On-Screen Marking (OSM) system plays a crucial role in the evaluation and re-evaluation of answer scripts. Through this digital platform, physical answer sheets are scanned and uploaded, enabling examiners to review and assess responses electronically.

The system has been used by CBSE to streamline:

• Answer sheet scanning
• Digital evaluation
• Re-evaluation requests
• Verification of marks
• Processing of student applications

Sources indicate that the board has decided to continue with the platform for the current cycle to ensure continuity in the re-evaluation process.

Enhanced Data Security Measures Introduced

Following concerns regarding data protection and cybersecurity, CBSE has reportedly strengthened its security framework.

According to sources:

• Student answer-sheet data has been transferred from company-managed servers to CBSE-controlled servers.

• Additional safeguards have been implemented to prevent unauthorized access.

• Measures have been adopted to protect the portal from potential cyberattacks and data breaches.

• The board now has greater oversight and control over answer-script records and evaluation-related information.

These steps are aimed at improving transparency and ensuring the security of sensitive student examination data.

Background of the Controversy

The issue gained public attention after a blog post written by Sarthak Sidhant, a 17-year-old student from Jharkhand, circulated online and sparked discussions about CBSE's evaluation infrastructure.

In the blog, Sidhant reportedly examined tender documents related to the OSM contract and raised questions regarding modifications made to tender conditions over multiple rounds of the bidding process.

The blog alleged that certain changes in the tender requirements may have benefited COEMPT Eduteck during the contract award process. The observations generated considerable discussion among students, educators, and social media users interested in examination transparency and public procurement practices.

Impact on Students

CBSE has assured that the ongoing verification and re-evaluation process will continue without disruption.

Students who have:

• Obtained scanned copies of their answer books,
• Applied for verification of marks,
• Requested re-evaluation of specific answers,

can continue using the existing portal as per the schedule announced by the board.

The continuation of the OSM platform is expected to ensure that applications are processed efficiently during the current re-evaluation cycle.

Importance of Digital Evaluation Systems

Digital evaluation platforms have become increasingly important for large examination boards due to their ability to:

• Reduce manual handling of answer scripts.
• Improve evaluation consistency.
• Speed up result processing.
• Facilitate re-evaluation requests.
• Provide digital records for future reference.

However, such systems also require strong cybersecurity measures because they handle large volumes of sensitive student information.

Conclusion

CBSE's decision to continue using COEMPT Eduteck's On-Screen Marking platform reflects the board's focus on maintaining continuity in the Class 12 re-evaluation process while strengthening data protection mechanisms. With answer-sheet records now reportedly hosted on CBSE-controlled servers and additional cybersecurity safeguards in place, the board aims to ensure a secure and transparent evaluation environment. Meanwhile, discussions surrounding the tender process continue to attract attention as stakeholders emphasize the importance of accountability and transparency in educational technology contracts.