Maharashtra Class 12 Board Exam 2026: Govt extends HSC exam form deadline to October 20 for flood-affected students

Maharashtra Class 12 Board Exam 2026

The Maharashtra government has extended the deadline for submitting Class 12 board exam forms. The new deadline is now October 20, announced Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday.

The decision comes as a direct response to the hardships faced by thousands of students and their parents in flood-ravaged regions of the state, who found it impossible to meet the original deadline due to disrupted communications and infrastructure.

The extension was initiated after Deputy CM Shinde received numerous distress calls from students and farmer parents in affected areas. They highlighted how the flood situation had created obstacles in completing the crucial application process for the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) examinations.

"I was getting calls from many students and farmer parents in the flood-affected areas. They were saying that due to the flood situation, it is not possible for the 12th standard students to fill out the exam form. Tomorrow was the last date," Shinde told reporters.

Understanding the urgency of the situation, Shinde immediately intervened by contacting the State Education Minister, Dada Bhuse. Following their discussion, the government approved the deadline extension.

"I understood the situation and spoke to the Education Minister Dada Bhuse over the phone. Considering the difficulties of the parents and students, the exam form date of the 12th standard students was postponed to October 20. Due to this, many students will get relief," Shinde stated.

The recent heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in parts of Maharashtra, particularly the Marathwada region, have caused extensive damage. Beyond the immediate danger to life and property, the floods have severely impacted students' academic lives. Many have lost essential study materials, including textbooks and notes, while others face challenges with internet connectivity and power supply, making online form submission impossible.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has maintained an Orange alert for several districts, including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Raigad, forecasting continued heavy to very heavy rainfall, which could further hinder recovery efforts.

The relief for students is part of the state's broader response to the flood crisis. Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis conducted a detailed review of the situation in severely affected districts like Solapur and Beed.

The administration has been directed to intensify relief and rescue operations. Reports indicate that thousands of citizens have been rescued and are currently housed in relief camps equipped with food, water, and medical facilities. As an interim measure, affected families are receiving financial aid and essential supplies.