NEET-UG May Continue In Pen-and-paper Mode As Southern States Oppose Exam Overhaul: Report

New Delhi: The Central Government's proposed plan regarding change in the method of NEET-UG examination has received a setback. Many states of South India have raised serious objections to the examination reforms being prepared by the Nilekani Panel. In such a situation, even after the paper leak controversy of 2026, the conduct of NEET-UG 2027 can continue in pen-paper mode. According to a report by The Economic Times, the implementation of comprehensive examination reforms may now be delayed. The new system is likely to be implemented from the academic session 2028-29.

Can examination reforms be implemented from 2028-29?

According to the report, the High-Powered Task Force (HPTF) has divided its recommendations into two parts. The first part includes long-term reforms to be implemented from the academic session 2028-29. In the second part, a roadmap for immediate steps for the examinations of 2027 has been prepared.

Under this roadmap, NEET-UG may also include the option of Computer-Based Examination (CBT) along with pen-paper. In the proposed system, it is being considered to conduct the examination in multiple shifts. This model can be like the examination system of JEE. However, the current examination system of JEE is likely to continue as before in 2027. The National Testing Agency (NTA) has already announced its schedule and format.

Why prepare to make NEET-UG computer-based?

The long-term goal of the exam reforms is to make NEET-UG completely computer-based. After this, it is also being considered to start computer adaptive testing in future. However, instead of implementing it suddenly, it is planned to be implemented in a phased manner over the next two to three years.

Its purpose is to prepare students for the computer-based examination and to give states time to develop the necessary digital infrastructure. HPTF has received more than 54 thousand suggestions and responses so far. The panel has to submit its report by January 2027.

What objections do Tamil Nadu and Kerala have to CBT mode?

According to the report, Tamil Nadu and Kerala have raised the most questions regarding the computer-based examination. The main concern of these states is about the impact on students in rural areas. Apart from this, there has also been a demand to give more importance to school board marks and ensure equality between different education boards.

Tamil Nadu has cited the Justice AK Rajan Committee report of 2021. This report said that admissions through NEET-UG may disadvantage Tamil-medium, government school and state board students as well as candidates from deprived sections.

What are the concerns about students from rural and weaker sections?

Many states have expressed apprehension that the implementation of computer-based examination may pose new challenges to rural and economically weaker students. The main reason for this is the difference between urban and rural areas in the availability of digital facilities.

Apart from this, a demand has also been raised to ensure equal opportunities for students studying at education boards other than CBSE. States say that since the syllabus of NEET and JEE is largely based on CBSE, students of other boards may face problems. For this reason, suggestions like organising mock tests and practice sessions have been made before changing to the computer-based format of the examination. The Nilekani panel will begin talks with senior officials and leadership of the southern states this week. After this, discussions will also be held with other states so that a nationwide consensus can be reached on examination reforms.