Patna: The government of Bihar has announced plans to digitise the assessment of university examination papers, part of a wider drive to modernise higher education and incorporate artificial intelligence into learning systems.
Under the proposal, exam scripts in state universities will no longer be marked on paper but through a digital evaluation process. The education department has submitted the plan to Lok Bhavan Patna, where it awaits final approval from the governor.
Education minister Sunil Kumar outlined the initiative in the legislative council, describing it as an extension of the technological reforms already implemented in science and technical institutions. He clarified that the digital marking system would initially apply only to university examinations and not to secondary or intermediate school exams.
The move comes amid a broader transformation of Bihar’s education sector. The minister noted that the state’s education budget has risen dramatically in recent years – from about Rs 4,400 crore before 2005 to more than Rs 70,000 crore in the 2026-27 financial year. According to government figures, this represents roughly 20% of Bihar’s total annual budget, making it the highest proportion allocated to education by any Indian state.
Officials argue that digitisation will improve transparency and efficiency in exam assessment, though critics have previously raised concerns about data security and the readiness of institutions to implement large-scale technological change.
Alongside the digital marking initiative, the government is promoting artificial intelligence as a core component of higher education. AI-based modules are set to become compulsory in engineering and polytechnic colleges, a policy supported by an agreement signed in January with industry body NASSCOM. The partnership aims to equip students with skills that align with global technological trends and improve employability.
The administration maintains that integrating AI and digital systems will make Bihar’s universities more competitive and future-oriented. However, questions remain about infrastructure, training for academic staff and the pace of implementation.
Education reform has been a key priority for the government of chief minister Nitish Kumar, who has previously emphasised investment in human capital as essential for economic growth. Supporters of the new measures argue that Bihar’s large student population could benefit from more efficient assessment systems and modern curricula, while opponents caution against rapid changes without adequate preparation.
The proposal now moves to the governor’s office for approval. If sanctioned, digital evaluation of university papers could begin in the next academic cycle, marking a significant shift in how higher education assessments are conducted in the state.
