Nationwide Mock Drill Held Ahead of NEET-UG Re-exam on Sunday
A day before the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, the National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted a mock drill across the country on Saturday to test security and logistical readiness. The re-exam, scheduled for Sunday from 2 pm to 5:15 pm, will see over 22.79 lakh medical aspirants appear at centres in 551 Indian cities and 14 foreign locations. The original test was scrapped nearly seven weeks ago after a paper leak sparked protests, political clashes and legal scrutiny.
The NTA stated it has put in place "comprehensive arrangements" to ensure a fair and secure process. Candidates must report to their centres between 11 am and 1:30 pm, with entry gates closing sharply at 1:30 pm. Those with disabilities eligible for compensatory time can write until 6:20 pm. The exam is offered in English and 12 Indian languages.
Security measures are extensive: over 95,000 examination rooms equipped with 1,38,560 CCTV cameras, all monitored live at national, state and ministry levels. AI-based tools will analyse feeds for anomalies. Additionally, 51,311 jammers have been deployed to block electronic malpractice. On the ground, two invigilators will be in every room, with more than 10 additional functionaries per centre. Frisking and biometric verification have been strengthened with 38,795 frisking staff and 48,448 biometric personnel, supported by face authentication. Around 6,700 observers and over 100 virtual observers have been deployed, along with 40 to 50 security personnel per centre.
For secure logistics, the NTA has mobilised police, paramilitary forces, the Indian Air Force and the Department of Posts to handle confidential material. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan chaired high-level review meetings to assess preparedness. The government temporarily restricted access to Telegram, with the NTA calling it a move against cheating rackets. A verified WhatsApp channel has been launched for authentic updates, and students are warned against social media rumours about leaked papers or paid services.
📰 Source: Sahil Online