Gandhinagar: The state board exams for Classes 10 and 12 commenced today in Gujarat. In the exams conducted by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB), about 15.39 lakh students are appearing.

It is learned that 9.17 lakh students are appearing for the Class 10 exams, out of which 7.06 lakh are regular students, and the rest are external candidates. The number of students appearing for the Class 12th science stream is 1.32 lakh, while 4.89 lakh are taking the exam for the general stream.

These are the first exams being held after the change in the exam format. The state board has designated 981 centers in 84 zones for conducting the Class 10th exams. Class 12th science stream exams are being held in 147 centers, while 506 centers are designated for the Class 12th general stream exam.

To ensure integrity, all examination centers will be under constant CCTV surveillance, centrally monitored to prevent any irregularities.

The Class 10 exams are scheduled to conclude on March 22, while the Class 12 exams will end on March 26. A helpline was also announced by the board, available from February 8 to March 26, catering to students, parents, and schools. Professional counselors, including psychologists, will provide counseling services during the hours of 10 am to 6 pm. DeshGujarat