A growing number of school principals in Maharashtra have raised concerns over what they describe as an unreasonably low remuneration for board examination duty. According to principals, they are being paid just Rs 25 for nearly three hours of invigilation work during the state board exams. The issue has sparked frustration among school heads, who say the payment does not reflect the responsibility, time, and accountability involved in conducting crucial public examinations.
I am writing about this issue because board examinations are one of the most sensitive and important processes in the school education system. Principals play a key role in ensuring smooth, fair, and disciplined conduct of exams. When those responsible for managing exam centres feel undervalued, it raises serious questions about how administrative duties in education are being recognised and compensated.
What the Issue Is About
The controversy revolves around the honorarium paid to principals for exam-related duties assigned by the state board. For duties that can stretch beyond three hours, including supervision, coordination, and compliance with strict examination guidelines, principals are reportedly receiving just Rs 25.
Many principals argue that the amount is not only outdated but also disrespectful to the nature of the work they perform during board exams.
Why Principals Are Upset
Principals say exam duty goes far beyond sitting in an examination hall. Their responsibilities include ensuring question paper security, managing staff deployment, handling emergencies, and maintaining discipline throughout the exam process.
Some of the concerns raised include:
- Long working hours on exam days
- High level of accountability and stress
- Risk of disciplinary action in case of any lapse
- No revision in remuneration for several years
In this context, Rs 25 for hours of duty is being seen as symbolic rather than meaningful compensation.
Role of Principals During Board Exams
During SSC and HSC examinations conducted by the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education, principals often serve as centre heads or key supervisory officials.
Their role includes:
- Overseeing exam centre operations
- Coordinating with invigilators and board officials
- Ensuring adherence to examination rules
- Handling unexpected situations calmly and legally
Given these responsibilities, principals feel the current honorarium fails to acknowledge their contribution.
Demand for Revision of Honorarium
School heads are now urging education authorities to revise the remuneration structure for board exam duties. They believe the payment should be aligned with current costs, workload, and professional responsibility.
Some principals have pointed out that while expectations from schools and administrators have increased over the years, compensation for additional duties has remained stagnant.
Why This Matters for the Education System
This issue is not just about money. It reflects how additional administrative responsibilities in schools are valued. If experienced educators feel discouraged or demotivated, it can impact the smooth conduct of large-scale examinations like SSC and HSC.
From my point of view, fair compensation is essential not only to respect the profession but also to ensure that exams are conducted efficiently and without resentment.
What Happens Next
As of now, principals are hoping the education department and board officials will take note of their concerns and initiate discussions on revising exam duty payments. Whether the issue leads to a formal review or policy change remains to be seen.














