Punjab biometric exam verification to begin in 2026 board exams

The Punjab government has decided to roll out Punjab biometric exam verification for Matriculation and Intermediate examinations starting from 2026, in a move aimed at tightening exam security and reducing long-standing issues of cheating and impersonation.

The decision was taken during a meeting held at the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education (BISE) Lahore, where senior officials from all nine boards across the province were present. The meeting focused on improving the credibility of the examination system and addressing complaints that surface every year during board exams.

Under the proposed system, students will be required to undergo biometric identification before being allowed to enter examination halls. Officials said the verification will be linked with official student records, making it difficult for fake candidates or proxy test-takers to appear in exams.

Exam reforms to improve transparency

Punjab biometric exam verification. Along with biometric checks, the Punjab government has approved several changes to the examination process, particularly for practical exams. A standardised grading system will be introduced across all boards to bring uniformity in marking, which has often been criticised for inconsistency.

CCTV cameras will also be installed in laboratories during practical examinations. Education officials believe video monitoring will help discourage misconduct and provide evidence in case of disputes or complaints.

To strengthen accountability, the government has decided to increase payments for examination staff and invigilators. Officials said better compensation would reduce pressure on staff and help ensure fair conduct during exams.

Chairman of the Task Force Committee, Mazmoul Mahmood, warned that strict action would be taken against anyone found attempting to influence results or engage in bribery. He said the government would not tolerate interference in the examination process under any circumstances.

BISE Lahore officials confirmed that detailed instructions regarding biometric verification and other reforms will be shared with schools well before the 2026 examination cycle, allowing students and institutions enough time to prepare.