PINAKI MAJUMDAR
Jamshedpur, Feb 3: The 2026 Matriculation and Intermediate examinations conducted by the Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) commenced on Tuesday across the state, with over 7.48 lakh students appearing amid heightened security and surveillance to ensure a fair and malpractice-free process.
Extensive Preparations and Secure Logistics
All logistical arrangements were completed well in advance, with question papers and examination materials securely delivered to districts under strict protocols. As per detailed guidelines issued by the council, district administrations and police have been entrusted with the safe movement of question papers from treasuries to examination centres.
Nearly 2,000 Examination Centres Operational
The Matric examination is being taken by 4,23,861 candidates at 1,232 centres, while 3,24,321 students are appearing for the Intermediate examination at 757 centres. In total, 1,989 examination centres are operational across Jharkhand.
Among Intermediate examinees, 90,579 are from the Science stream, 21,195 from Commerce, and 2,12,547 from the Arts stream, according to official figures.
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CCTV Surveillance and Magistrate Supervision
In line with JAC directives, all examination centres have been fitted with CCTV cameras and placed under the supervision of static magistrates, backed by adequate police deployment. The entire examination process—from dispatch of question papers to the conclusion of each paper—is under close monitoring, with strict action warned in case of any lapse.
Candidate Numbers Dip Marginally
Official data indicates a slight decline in the number of candidates compared to the previous session. Giridih district recorded the highest number of Matric examinees at 40,827, while Khunti reported the lowest at 6,097. Giridih also leads in terms of Intermediate candidates.
JAC Secretary Jayant Kumar Mishra reiterated the council’s commitment to maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of the examinations. He appealed to students to reach their centres well in time, carry their admit cards, and avoid being misled by rumours.
The examinations will continue till February 23.