Ranchi: The Class 10 board examinations in Jharkhand began on Tuesday morning under tight security arrangements, an official said.

The Class 12 examinations will commence later in the day, he added.

Around 4.23 lakh students have enrolled for the Class 10 exams, which are being conducted at 1,232 centres across the state. More than 3.24 lakh students are set to appear for the Class 12 examinations at 757 centres.

The Class 10 exams began at 9.45 am and will continue till 1 pm, while the Class 12 papers will be held from 2 pm to 5.15 pm.

Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) Secretary Jayant Mishra said the Class 10 examinations started with vocational subjects, while the Class 12 exams will begin in the second sitting.

He said adequate arrangements have been made to ensure smooth conduct of the examinations. CCTV cameras have been installed in all examination halls, and invigilators have been barred from carrying mobile phones to ensure free and fair exams.

The Class 10 exams will conclude on February 17, while the Class 12 exams will end on February 23.