neet-ug-shift-to-online-mode-under-govt-review

The Ministry of Education is reviewing a proposed transition of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (Undergraduate) to a computer-based format, following recommendations by a government-appointed panel led by former ISRO chairman K. Radhakrishnan. The panel also suggested Aadhaar-based biometric verification to curb fraud at examination centres.

 

Senior ministry officials said the review will consider the nation’s digital infrastructure and the outcomes of computer-based tests in other exams. “We are analysing two sets of data, one is digital infrastructure in the country to assess readiness for such a transition, and the other is impact of switching to a computer-based format in other entrance exams like JEE,” a senior ministry official informed.

 

NEET-UG, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is India’s largest medical entrance examination, attracting more than double the candidates of exams like JEE. It recently faced criticism over paper leaks and alleged cheating, which delayed counselling by nearly two months. “NEET is the largest entrance exam in the country. It caters to more than twice the number of students who appear for JEE or any other exam. Therefore, any decision will be taken with that in mind,” the official added. The final decision will rest with the Ministry of Health.

Also read: ED raids Ranchi, Patna in NEET UG paper leak case

 

The Radhakrishnan panel, formed in June last year, had recommended a gradual shift from paper-and-pencil testing to computer-based testing, while ensuring students in rural and remote areas are not disadvantaged. It also urged implementation of Aadhaar-based biometric verification, which NTA piloted this year and plans to fully deploy across all centres in 2026. “This Aadhaar-based biometric verification will be conducted at all centres across the country starting next year. We are working on it,” said the official.

 

Additionally, another panel set up in June is analysing question papers to reduce reliance on coaching centres and ensure exams align with the Class 12 syllabus. “We have already held a meeting. We are analysing the difficulty levels of question papers to understand how they are set and whether they align with the grade 12 syllabus or differ from it,” the ministry official explained.