Confusion over Holi date as RBSE exams slated for March 4

Jaipur: With Rajasthan board examinations scheduled for March 4 coinciding with Holi celebrations in many parts of the state, parents and teachers have expressed concern and urged the state govt to reconsider the exam date.Teachers said the exam schedule remains unchanged as the state govt declared holidays on March 2 and 3. However, in several districts Holi will be celebrated on March 4, the same day when RBSE examinations for history, business studies, agricultural chemistry and chemistry are slated. While CBSE revised its March 3 board exam schedule in view of the festival, no such decision has been announced by the Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education (RBSE).
Sanyukta Abhibhavak Sangh, a city-based parents' body, issued a statement Friday demanding a change in the exam date, calling it a major festival that warrants consideration. "There is a lot of confusion regarding Holi in the first week of March. Some people will celebrate Holi on March 3 and some on March 4. In such a situation, the students are stuck in a dilemma. CBSE also scheduled exams for March 3, but due to the festival, the exam dates were shifted. Such steps should also be taken by RBSE as it is difficult for students to come to school on Holi," said Abhishek Jain Bittu, spokesperson of the Sangh. He added that in both urban and rural areas, it may not be safe for students to travel to examination centres on Holi. Teachers echoed similar concerns. "At most places across the state, Holi is being celebrated on March 4, the same day as board exams. It is not only unsafe for students but will also be difficult for them to reach examination centres as transport systems are also less on Holi. All major community Holi gatherings are being held on March 4," said a senior teacher leader, requesting anonymity. They said unless the state govt revises the holiday notification, the education department is unlikely to alter the exam schedule.