IAS Officer Mandeep Bhandari Takes Helm of CBSE Amid Evaluation Row

NEW DELHI — The Ministry of Education announced on 25 September 2026 that IAS officer Mandeep Bhandari will serve as the new chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). The appointment comes after a period of scrutiny over the board’s online school management (OSM) evaluation framework, which had drawn criticism from educators and parents alike.

Bhandari, a senior officer of the Indian Administrative Service, has held several key positions in the Ministry of Education over the past decade. Prior to his appointment, he served as a senior officer in the Department of School Education, where he oversaw policy implementation across the country. The CBSE, a statutory body under the Ministry, is responsible for setting curricula, conducting examinations, and maintaining academic standards for schools nationwide.

Background of the OSM Evaluation Controversy

The OSM evaluation system, introduced by CBSE in 2024 to streamline assessment of schools through digital platforms, faced criticism for its methodology and transparency. Critics argued that the system relied heavily on self‑reported data, leading to inconsistencies in school ratings. The controversy intensified in early 2026 when several schools reported discrepancies between their OSM scores and on‑ground performance metrics. A formal complaint was filed with the Ministry, prompting a review of the evaluation process.

In response, CBSE announced a re‑evaluation of the OSM framework in May 2026. The board released a revised set of guidelines aimed at improving data verification and reducing subjectivity. However, the changes were met with mixed reactions, and the board’s credibility remained under scrutiny. The appointment of a new chairperson was seen as a step toward restoring confidence in the institution.

Appointment Process and Official Statements

According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Education, the appointment of Bhandari was made after a recommendation from the Cabinet Committee on Administrative Reform. The ministry said the decision was based on Bhandari’s “proven track record in educational administration and policy implementation.” The announcement was made during a virtual meeting of the Ministry’s senior officials on 25 September 2026.

In a statement released by the Ministry, it was noted that Bhandari would serve a five‑year term as CBSE chairperson, with the possibility of renewal based on performance. The ministry also highlighted that the new chairperson would work closely with the CBSE’s executive committee to oversee curriculum reforms and examination protocols.

Reactions from Stakeholders

Educational associations welcomed the appointment, citing Bhandari’s experience in policy execution. The National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) released a brief note expressing confidence that the new leadership would address the OSM evaluation concerns. “The appointment of an experienced IAS officer is expected to bring administrative rigor to CBSE’s operations,” the note said.

School administrators and parent groups, however, urged the board to maintain transparency in its evaluation processes. A representative of the All India Teachers’ Association (AITA) said that while the appointment was a positive step, “the real test will be how the new chairperson implements reforms to ensure fairness and accuracy in school assessments.”

Parallel Appointment of Sarita Chauhan

In the same announcement, the Ministry also named IAS officer Sarita Chauhan as the new Secretary of the Department of School Education. Chauhan’s appointment was highlighted as part of a broader effort to strengthen educational governance. The dual appointments were described by the ministry as a “strategic move to align policy and implementation across the education sector.”

Implications for CBSE’s Future

CBSE’s board has outlined a series of reforms to be rolled out under Bhandari’s leadership. These include a comprehensive audit of the OSM evaluation system, the introduction of third‑party verification mechanisms, and a review of the board’s examination protocols. The board’s executive committee has scheduled a series of stakeholder consultations to gather feedback on the proposed changes.

While the appointment marks a new chapter for CBSE, the board’s leadership will face scrutiny as it implements reforms aimed at restoring confidence among schools and parents. The Ministry of Education has indicated that it will monitor the board’s progress closely, with periodic reviews scheduled for 2027 and 2028.