LUCKNOW, Nov. 7 -- In a significant shift from traditional marks-based assessment, the Uttar Pradesh government is set to introduce a 360-degree Holistic Progress Card (HPC) for students of Classes 9 and 10, beginning with the 2026-27 academic session. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to assess students' overall development rather than relying solely on examination scores, according to a circular issued by director general school, Monika Rani.. The initiative, mandated for all government secondary schools, aims to move the educational framework beyond the singular focus on examination scores. In a directive dated November 5, the state project director of Samagra Shiksha (Secondary) instructed district inspectors of schools across Uttar Pradesh to ensure the immediate circulation and implementation of the new assessment framework in government secondary schools. The progress report card has been divided into three broad sections: general information, holistic development and academic performance. The first section will record students' personal and family details, along with their physical development and nutritional status, including height, weight, body mass index (BMI), haemoglobin levels and blood group. It will also cover basic health screening, including vision, hearing and dental health. These health parameters will be recorded at the time of admission or in April, and again in January, based on observations by doctors, health workers or class teachers. The second section, which forms the core of the new assessment system, will evaluate students on various developmental indicators. Under self-assessment, students will be encouraged to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, interests, time management, learning abilities and future career aspirations....