OTET 2025: Odisha Board Tightens Grip with Foolproof Measures

In a move to restore trust after previous scandals, the Board of Secondary Education (BSE), Odisha, has announced stringent protocols for the upcoming Special Odisha Teacher Eligibility Test (OTET) scheduled on September 27. A total of 75,403 candidates will appear for the examination across 193 centres.

Ensuring Safe and Transparent Examination

The BSE is taking every measure to guarantee that the exam process is both safe and transparent. Advanced security protocols include:

• Watermarks and unique serial codes on each question paper to trace any breaches to specific centres or individuals.

• Tin boxes for paper transportation, locked manually and digitally with official seals.

• GPS tracking during transit from the board’s headquarters to the examination centres.

• CCTV surveillance in strong rooms and real-time monitoring by the BSE control room.

Background: 2023 OTET Paper Leak Scandal

The board’s strict measures come in the aftermath of the 2023 OTET paper leak scandal, which involved a Crime Branch investigation and led to the arrest of eight individuals, including the board’s vice president. The incident had sparked widespread criticism of the board’s examination management.

Exam Paper Distribution Plan

To further prevent leaks, the BSE has planned staggered distribution of papers:

• 24 centres will receive papers by September 24.

• The remaining centres will get papers on September 26.

Strict protocols will be followed at every stage of handling and storage.

Restoring Confidence Among Candidates and Educators

These measures reflect the BSE’s commitment to safeguard OTET’s integrity and to rebuild confidence among candidates and the educational community. The board aims to ensure a smooth, trouble-free examination in Odisha, free from past controversies.