'PARAKH' - A new regulator to bring uniformity between the state and central boards in India

Tags: National National News

The Center is planning to create 'PARAKH', a benchmark framework for assessing students at secondary and higher secondary levels, to bring about "uniformity" across state and central boards.

What is PARAKH?

• PARAKH full name is -Performance Assessment, Review and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development.

• It will act as a constituent unit of the NCERT.

• It will also be tasked with conducting periodic learning outcome tests like National Achievement Survey (NAS) and State Achievement Survey.

• This framework will seek to curb the emphasis on rote learning as envisaged by the National Policy on Education (NEP) 2020.

• It will be the proposed implementing agency and also will be part of the NEP proposal.

• Its team will consist of leading assessment experts with a deep understanding of the education system in India and internationally.

Response of the States :

• Most states supported the proposal to conduct board exams twice a year, including one test to help students improve their scores.

• The states have also agreed to the proposal to introduce two types of papers on mathematics - a standard exam, and an exam of higher level aptitude.

• This will help in reducing the fear of maths among the students and encourage learning.