Mumbai, August 31: The high-powered task force, chaired by Nandan Nilekani, has begun soliciting public suggestions for reforms in the NEET UG examination for 2027. This initiative comes in response to issues such as paper leaks and irregularities observed during the NEET UG 2026. The deadline for submitting suggestions is set for September 13, 2026.
Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, is not only focusing on NEET but is also seeking input on improving the security, design, operation, and governance of major examinations conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Four Tests a Year Could Solve 90% of Issues
Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, an academic and Rajya Sabha MP from the BJP, believes that allowing candidates to take the entrance test four times a year could address up to 90% of the problems faced by students. He emphasized that if candidates have the opportunity to sit for the test multiple times within a year, their best score could be considered, significantly reducing stress and reliance on coaching.
Dr. Mittal plans to meet with the committee to present his views, highlighting that students often begin preparing for NEET after their 10th grade. The pressure of a single three-hour exam can lead to immense mental stress, as students fear that a poor performance could jeopardize their future.
If NEET UG is conducted four times a year, it would lessen the dependence on a single annual exam, thus addressing many of the associated challenges. The committee is also considering keeping the exam fee at a minimum.
Committee Actively Gathering Suggestions
As of now, the new pattern for NEET UG 2027 has not been announced. The committee is in the process of gathering suggestions and aims to finalize a new pattern by October.