West Bengal Urges NTA to Reschedule JEE-Main Exam on Jan 23 Due to Festivals
West Bengal Urges NTA to Reschedule JEE-Main Exam

West Bengal Government Seeks Postponement of JEE-Main Exam on January 23

The West Bengal higher education department has formally requested the National Testing Agency to defer the JEE-Main session-1 examination scheduled for January 23. Principal Secretary Vinod Kumar sent a letter to the NTA highlighting the clash with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose's birth anniversary and Saraswati Puja celebrations.

Exam Schedule and Practical Challenges

The JEE-Main session-1 is currently planned across five days: January 21, 22, 23, 24, and 28. An official from the department explained the logistical issues. "Conducting the exam at the same venue in two shifts on January 23 will be very difficult. Students will face significant problems traveling and participating due to the festive activities," the official stated.

This request aims to ensure smooth exam administration and minimize inconvenience for candidates. The state emphasizes the importance of these cultural and historical events in West Bengal. Many students and families observe Saraswati Puja with traditional fervor, making it challenging to focus on exams.

Netaji's birth anniversary is a day of national remembrance, adding to the scheduling conflict. The department's appeal underscores the need for the NTA to consider regional sensitivities while planning national-level tests. A decision from the NTA is awaited, as thousands of engineering aspirants prepare for the crucial entrance exam.