In brief
The 2026 NEET‑UG exam was cancelled last month when allegations surfaced that the test paper had been leaked. In response, India’s National Testing Agency rolled out the most rigorous security protocols yet: biometric ID checks, metal detectors, CCTV cameras, armored patrols, drone surveillance, dog squads and strict dress codes. The Indian Air Force transported new question papers to key regions, while 51,311 jammers blocked phone signals and 1.3 million cameras were installed across the 5,440 exam centres. Students protest the delay, but the authorities urge calm and warn against fake leak rumours. The incident follows earlier controversies over NEET and other exams in 2024.
India’s National Testing Agency rescheduled the highly‑anticipated NEET‑UG medical entrance test after a suspect paper leak was exposed in May. The new exam, slated for this Sunday, will be the first in the country to feature an unprecedented security protocol designed to prevent any possibility of cheating.
Security measures include biometric identification, metal detectors, 1.3 million cameras, 51,311 jammers to block mobile signals and an armoured patrol that will monitor 5,440 exam centres. 39,000 frisking staff will check for prohibited items, while 40‑50 security officers will be stationed at each centre.
The Indian Air Force assisted by transporting new exam papers securely to several regions. Drones and dog squads have been deployed for aerial surveillance, and the government temporarily banned the Telegram app to stop possible leak channels.
In addition to the physical security, strict dress codes are in place: enclosed shoes are banned, and women are asked to remove nose pins and wrist threads. Students are reminded to ignore rumours circulating on social media and that students who worked hard will receive fair results.
Students protest the rescheduled exam and the excessive security, citing the recent 2024 NEET controversies and earlier grade‑12 exam incidents. The exam lasts three hours and fifteen minutes, testing 180 questions across physics, chemistry and biology.
