New Delhi, August 5: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced significant reforms for the NEET PG 2026 examination, aimed at preventing any form of malpractice and ensuring the safety of candidates during the exam.
The examination is scheduled to take place on August 30, with 273,000 candidates registered, marking a 12.5% increase compared to last year. The exam will be conducted across approximately 1,300 centers in 340 cities nationwide.
In response to the NEET UG 2026 paper leak incident, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has initiated robust security measures for the entire examination ecosystem.
A tender worth ₹7.5 crore has been issued for this purpose, which includes 24-hour security at sensitive locations, including the NTA headquarters. The tender was released on July 25, and bids will be opened on August 17. The appointed agency will be engaged for two years.
Key Changes:
- Aadhaar Verification: Verification based on Aadhaar will be conducted on the application and exam day. Biometric checks will require students to arrive at the center 2-3 hours early. If fingerprints are not available, iris scans will be performed.
- Enhanced Security: Over 60,000 personnel will be deployed, along with CCTV surveillance, signal jammers, and independent observers for live monitoring.
- Question Paper Structure: The total examination time of 210 minutes (3 hours 30 minutes) will be divided into different sections (A, B, C), with specific time allocated for each section. Once a section is submitted or its time expires, candidates cannot return to it.
- Negative Marking: Each correct answer will earn +4 points, while each incorrect answer will incur a penalty of -1 point (25% negative marking). Unattempted questions will receive 0 points.
- Emergency Protocols: In case of technical failures or server issues at any center, prompt backup arrangements will be made.