TBSE hikes examination fees; ABVP demands reconsideration

The Tripura Board of Secondary Education (TBSE) has recently announced a significant hike in the examination fee structure for both Madhyamik (Class 10) and Higher Secondary (Class 12) examinations, sparking widespread discussion among students across the state.

This is the first revision in the fee structure in nearly 12 years since 2013. According to the latest issued by the Board on October 8, 2025, the registration fee has been increased from Rs 150 to Rs 200, the Madhyamik examination fee from Rs 120 to Rs 300, and the Higher Secondary examination fee from Rs 150 to Rs 400.

In addition, there have been increases in the centre fee, practical examination fee, and self-inspection fee for answer scripts. This decision has drawn discontent among students and parents alike. While some consider the hike as a long-due “necessary adjustment,” many believe the increase is disproportionate and will impose financial strain on students from lower- and middle-income families. Particularly in rural areas—where a large number of students come from economically constrained households—this fee hike could pose an added burden. In response, the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Tripura Pradesh on Friday submitted a memorandum to the President of the TBSE, urging reconsideration of the decision.

The ABVP emphasized that education is a fundamental right and its cost must be kept affordable so that no student is deprived of the opportunity to appear for examinations due to financial reasons.

ABVP State Secretary Gourab Das stated, “The Board’s decision should not go beyond the financial capacity of students. We urge the TBSE to reconsider this move in light of the students’ welfare. Ensuring accessible and affordable education for all is ABVP’s primary objective.”

According to the ABVP, the Board should prioritize students’ interests and review the revised fee structure, possibly reverting to the previous rates. The organization argued that citing inflation or increased administrative costs cannot justify placing the burden on students. Instead, the government and the board should jointly explore alternative solutions that strengthen the education system without financially overburdening students.

 It is noteworthy that the TBSE last revised its fee structure in 2013—over a decade ago. However, many feel that the current rate of increase is excessively high, given the time gap. Several educators have also expressed concern that such a sharp hike might discourage students, especially from government schools, from appearing in board examinations. In this context, ABVP has urged the Board authorities to promptly review the decision in the best interest of students.

The organization has further warned that if the decision is not withdrawn, it will be compelled to initiate a larger student movement across the state. In conclusion, ABVP’s stance remains firm — education should not become a luxury but remain a basic right accessible to all. The organization has therefore called upon the TBSE to reconsider the fee hike immediately, keeping in view the financial realities of students and their families.