The Centre has communicated to the Supreme Court that it is weighing the possibility of a two-stage National Eligibility Entrance Test for Undergraduates (NEET-UG), similar to the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). This development signals a potential significant reformation of India’s foremost medical entrance examination. The information was conveyed through an affidavit amidst ongoing legal proceedings regarding the National Testing Agency (NTA) and calls for reforms following allegations related to question paper leaks.

The Supreme Court is set to revisit this matter on August 6. The affidavit outlines that stakeholders are currently assessing whether NEET-UG should maintain its existing single-stage format or transition to a two-stage system akin to JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Additionally, a switch from traditional pen-and-paper testing to computer-based assessments is also being evaluated.

While no definitive decisions have been made, the ultimate approach will be guided by recommendations from a High-Powered Task Force led by Nandan Nilekani, established to propose enhancements to the examination system.

Task Force’s Focus on Comprehensive Assessment

The Centre has indicated that the task force comprises specialists from diverse fields, including technology, space, intelligence, academia, and public administration. This multidisciplinary team has been tasked with analysing various factors associated with the proposed modifications, ensuring that any changes address key concerns such as examination security, technological capabilities, infrastructure, accessibility, equity, and academic implications.

According to the affidavit, of the eight major examinations conducted by the NTA, seven have already shifted to a computer-based format, which allows for multi-session and multi-day schedules. This includes notable exams such as JEE Main, CUET-UG, CUET-PG, UGC-NET, and CSIR-NET. NEET-UG continues to be the only prominent examination still using a pen-and-paper approach.

The transition of NEET-UG to a new format is underscored by its distinct challenges, primarily due to its vast scale and the heterogeneous nature of its candidates. With over 22 lakh students registering annually, many of whom are from rural backgrounds and a significant number being women, the size and diversity of the candidate pool complicate prospective changes.

Considerations for Future Reforms

The Centre has argued that NEET-UG’s unique requirements necessitate thorough scrutiny before implementing any structural modifications. Unlike other entrance assessments, NEET-UG is crucial for admission to a breadth of undergraduate medical courses, including MBBS, BDS, AYUSH, veterinary science, and nursing programmes. These elements contribute to the examination’s complexity, which necessitates careful deliberation over proposed alterations.

Furthermore, since NEET-UG is administered on behalf of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and regulated by the National Medical Commission (NMC), any alterations to the examination’s structure will only occur after thorough consultations with these entities, in accordance with the National Medical Commission Act of 2019.

The Centre has assured that, should there be any changes to the examination pattern or format, aspirants will be notified well in advance. This commitment aims to ensure a seamless transition that will not disadvantage candidates, maintaining the integrity of the selection process.

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