The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced significant changes for the upcoming NEET re-examination, including a longer examination window and additional rough-work pages. The re-exam is scheduled for June 21.
Extended Examination Window
The NTA has extended the examination window to 195 minutes, running from 2 pm to 5:15 pm. This duration includes time for mandatory formalities such as signing attendance sheets and other invigilation procedures. The revised timeline aims to allow candidates to utilize the intended examination time without feeling that administrative processes are cutting into their opportunity to attempt the paper.
More Rough-Work Pages
Candidates will now be provided with four rough-work pages instead of the previous two. This change gives students more space for calculations, diagrams, and other workings during the exam. The NTA stated that this adjustment addresses feedback from candidates who found the previous arrangement insufficient.
Revised Question Paper Booklet Layout
An important change involves the design of the question paper booklet. Previously, rough-work pages were only provided at the end of the booklet. While this worked for many, feedback indicated it was less convenient for some, particularly left-handed candidates. To address this, two rough-work pages have now been placed immediately after the instruction page at the beginning of the booklet, while two pages remain at the end. This revised layout applies to both English and regional language versions of the question paper, allowing candidates to use whichever pages are more convenient.
Cabinet Secretary Review
Cabinet Secretary Dr. TV Somanathan reviewed the preparedness for the NEET re-examination in a meeting with the Director General of the NTA on Friday. He emphasized the need for smooth, transparent, and secure conduct through close coordination among all stakeholders. Somanathan warned that any attempt to distort, disrupt, or tamper with the integrity of the re-examination would face the full weight of the law.
The Cabinet Secretary had previously reviewed arrangements with Central Government secretaries and relevant agencies on June 1, and held a meeting with state Chief Secretaries on June 4 to assess preparedness.
