PRAYAGRAJ, March 5 -- In a major relief for students, the Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad (UP Board) will, for the first time, allow Intermediate (Class 12) students to appear for an improvement examination in one subject. The decision is expected to benefit around 25,76,082 students registered for the Class 12 UP Board exams this year.

Confirming the move, UP Board secretary Bhagwati Singh said, "A proposal has been sent to the state government to introduce the improvement examination option in one of the five subjects at the Intermediate level from the current academic session."

Officials said in-principle approval has also been received. Once formal approval is granted, applications for the improvement examination will be in...