NEET UG will be computer-based test from next year, says Dharmendra Pradhan

The NEET UG examination will be conducted as a fully computer-based test (CBT) from next year, said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday (May 15), days after the examination was cancelled due to an alleged paper leak.

Re-exam schedule announced

Speaking to reporters, Pradhan further stated that the admit cards for the NEET UG 2026 will be issued by June 14, adding that the re-examination will be held on June 21.

Also Read: NEET-UG 2026 exam to be re-conducted on June 21, says NTA

Pradhan said that on May 7, concerns were raised regarding a “guess paper” in the now-cancelled examination, following which Central government agencies received complaints.

"Once we were certain about the leak, we immediately decided that there should be no compromise with students' fair chance," said Pradhan as quoted by NDTV.

Zero tolerance stand

Referring to earlier debacles in conducting the NEET examination, Pradhan recalled that a similar situation led to the formation of the Radhakrishnan Committee. He asserted that the Centre follows a “zero tolerance” policy for examination malpractice.

Also Read: Political row erupts over NEET paper leak as CBI produces 5 accused in Delhi court

The minister was referring to the expert panel headed by K Radhakrishnan, former Indian Space Research Organisation Chairman, which was set up in the aftermath of the 2024 NEET paper leak. The committee had submitted 95 recommendations aimed at tightening the examination process and plugging systemic gaps.

"Our approach will remain zero tolerance towards malpractices and anti-social elements. With advancements in technology, such challenges are emerging, but we will not allow any compromise with students' future," he added.

CBI probe intensifies

As for the ongoing probe into the latest paper-leak case, the Union Minister said that the Central Bureau of Investigation will conduct a detailed investigation, adding that Central agencies have been instructed to reach the root of the matter. He assured strong action against those involved in the crime.

Also Read: NEET scam: Bihar gang busted, expert calls for online exam | Interview

"We do not want any mafia to snatch seats from hardworking students. Student trust is of utmost importance," said Pradhan, admitting that there was a need to further strengthen the system under the National Testing Agency to ensure "zero-error" examinations.

“Despite following the recommendations of the Radhakrishnan committee, there was a breach in the command chain. We accept it and take responsibility to improve it,” Pradhan said as quoted by the Hindustan Times.

Insider angle emerges

The report further stated that earlier, the CBI informed a Delhi court that the trail in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak appeared to lead back to an insider within the National Testing Agency (NTA). The agency told the court that efforts were underway to identify NTA officials and other public functionaries who may have played a role in the breach.

The Centre has acknowledged the disruption caused by the decision to conduct the examination again, but maintained that the move was necessary to protect the interests of sincere candidates and to ensure that “wrongdoings of scamsters” don't jeopardise their future.