NEET-UG Paper Leak Sparks Calls for Reform Amidst Inaction
After last leak, ex-ISRO chief panel had called for reforms; all gather dust
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) has been cancelled due to a paper leak, prompting a high-level committee led by former ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan to recommend reforms. Despite a detailed report submitted in October 2024, key recommendations for transitioning to computer-based testing and improving security protocols remain unimplemented nearly two years later.
- 01NEET-UG cancelled over a paper leak, marking a first in its history.
- 02A committee led by K Radhakrishnan proposed reforms, including a shift to computer-based testing.
- 03The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has not approved the shift to computer-based testing.
- 04Concerns over normalizing question papers across multiple shifts hinder reform implementation.
- 05Only a few recommendations from the committee have been implemented so far.
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The cancellation of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) in 2024 due to an alleged paper leak has reignited discussions on necessary reforms in the examination process. Following the incident, the BJP-led government constituted a high-level committee led by K Radhakrishnan (former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation) to propose reforms aimed at enhancing security protocols. In its October 2024 report, the committee recommended transitioning from pen-and-paper testing (PPT) to computer-based testing (CBT) to mitigate the risks of malpractice. However, nearly two years later, these recommendations remain largely unaddressed. The committee emphasized that a robust CBT model with multiple shifts is essential, yet the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has not approved this transition, citing challenges in normalizing question papers across the estimated 25 lakh candidates who take the exam. The committee's suggestions also included multi-session testing and a hybrid secure process for administering tests, but progress has been minimal, with only a few recommendations implemented. The ongoing issues highlight the urgent need for reform in one of India's largest examinations.
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The ongoing issues with NEET-UG could affect the admission process for medical education in India, potentially delaying student placements and impacting future medical professionals.
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