The Higher Secondary Second Year public examinations commenced across Tamil Nadu on Monday, with 8,27,475 students appearing at 3,412 examination centres set up across the State.
The examinations will continue until March 26. On the first day, language papers, including Tamil, are being conducted.
To ensure smooth and fair conduct of the examinations, the School Education Department has deployed 4,540 fixed and flying squads across districts to prevent malpractices and monitor centres. Authorities said all examination halls have been equipped with essential facilities, including drinking water, adequate seating, electricity, ventilation, lighting and toilets.
Strict guidelines have been issued to students and invigilators. Electronic devices, including mobile phones, are strictly prohibited inside examination halls. Students have been instructed to adhere to the rules mentioned in their hall tickets.
Officials said candidates must write their answers only in blue or black ink. Writing names, special symbols or identification marks on answer sheets is prohibited.
Special provisions, including extra time and necessary assistance, have been arranged for students with disabilities as per government norms.
The department has warned that severe action will be taken against candidates indulging in malpractice, including impersonation, copying, writing on unauthorised materials or tampering with answer sheets. Offenders may face debarment from examinations for up to three years or permanent disqualification in serious cases.
For examination-related queries and complaints, students and parents can contact the helpline numbers 14417, 94983 83075 and 94983 83076, officials said.
