A high-level expert committee led by former ISRO chairman Dr Koppillil Radhakrishnan has proposed a comprehensive set of 101 reforms for the NEET-UG examination, potentially introducing age limits and attempt caps for the first time. These changes come in the wake of the 2024 paper leak controversy that shook the medical entrance exam.
Key Reforms Proposed
The committee's recommendations include transitioning to computer-based testing, implementing Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, and deploying AI-driven surveillance systems. Other measures involve mobile jammers in examination centres and extensive CCTV coverage to prevent malpractice.
Security Enhancements
To bolster exam integrity, authorities have introduced multiple security layers. Over 1.85 lakh CCTV cameras were deployed across examination centres for NEET-UG 2026, with 5,432 centres equipped with mobile jammers. Aadhaar-based biometric verification and AI monitoring are now standard procedures.
NEET-UG 2026 Cancellation
The NEET-UG 2026 examination, originally scheduled for May 2025, was cancelled on May 12, 2025, due to alleged malpractice. A re-examination has been scheduled for June 21, 2025, with enhanced security protocols in place.
NTA Structural Reforms
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is undergoing significant structural changes, including the creation of 16 new senior-level positions. The agency is also increasing involvement of experts from IITs and the University Grants Commission (UGC) to improve examination management.
Long-Term Reforms
Key long-term proposals include computer adaptive testing, AI-driven surveillance, and harmonisation of entrance examinations to reduce dependency on coaching institutes. The committee aims to make the examination process more transparent and secure.
Statistics at a Glance
- 101: Number of reforms proposed by the expert committee
- 99.5%: Percentage of NEET-UG 2026 examination centres using government institutions
- 1.85 lakh: Number of CCTV cameras deployed across examination centres
- 5,432: Number of examination centres with mobile jammers installed
- May 12, 2025: Date NEET-UG 2026 was cancelled
