In a major reform aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has proposed a significant change to the Class 10 Mathematics examination. The Board intends to introduce two distinct levels of assessment—Mathematics Basic and Mathematics Standard—to reduce exam stress and cater to students’ diverse academic goals.
Below, we break down the specifics of this proposal, the difference between the two levels, and how stakeholders can submit their feedback.
Key Highlights of the Proposal
For quick reference, here are the core details of the new evaluation model.
| Feature | Details |
| Proposal | Introduction of Basic and Standard levels in Maths |
| Class | Class 10th |
| Objective | Reduce exam pressure & align with future career paths |
| Syllabus | Remains Uniform for both levels |
| Feedback Deadline | Within 10 Days of notice issuance |
Understanding “Basic” vs “Standard” Mathematics
The Board has clarified that while the syllabus and teaching practices will remain the same for everyone, the difficulty level of the final question paper will differ based on the student’s choice.
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Mathematics Standard: Designed for students who intend to pursue Mathematics in Class 11, 12, and beyond. The difficulty level will remain consistent with the current testing standards.
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Mathematics Basic: Designed for students who do not plan to pursue Mathematics at the Higher Secondary level. This paper will be comparatively simpler, focusing on core understanding without the burden of advanced complexity.
Official Note: “The move is designed to ensure that students who do not plan to continue with Mathematics after Class 10 are not burdened with advanced-level testing.”
Flexibility for Students
JKBOSE has incorporated significant flexibility to ensure students are not disadvantaged by their initial choice:
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If you fail Standard: A student who opts for Mathematics Standard but fails can appear in the Bi-Annual Examination for either the Standard or Basic level, depending on their preference.
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Changing your mind: A student who passes Mathematics Basic but later decides to pursue Maths in Class 11/12 will be allowed to sit for the Mathematics Standard Compartment Examination to upgrade their qualification.
Public Suggestions Invited: How to Submit Feedback
The Board is seeking feedback from all stakeholders—teachers, parents, students, academicians, and civil society—to ensure the decision is transparent and inclusive.
Deadline: Suggestions must be submitted within 10 days.
Send your feedback to the following official emails:
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directoracad@jkbose.co.in -
dydirectoracad_kd@jkbose.co.in -
dydirectoracad_jd@jkbose.co.in -
gayoomaliya@gmail.com
For further clarifications, stakeholders can contact Dr. Aliya Qayoom, Assistant Director, at 9419034999.
Conclusion
This proposed “Two-Tier” system mirrors successful models used by other central boards (like CBSE) and is a welcome step towards student-centric education in J&K. Stakeholders are encouraged to voice their opinions immediately to help shape this reform.