BackSCIENCE_HEALTH
Experts flag need to review and structurally reform the NTA
Following the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, experts criticized the NTA's operational capacity, cybersecurity, and crisis communication. The piece places the current crisis in the context of past retests, leaks, and reforms since 2019, and notes calls for digital/hybrid exams and a high-level reform committee. It also references 2024 reforms and argues that cancelling the exam alone is not a solution.
Why It Matters
The event could affect medical admissions nationwide and highlights ongoing governance and security reforms for a critical national entrance examination.
Timeline
8 Events
Re-exam process planned following cancellation
May 12, 2026
The article notes that the process to hold a re-exam would begin in 7-10 days, as stated by NTA DG Abhishek Singh.
NEET-UG 2026 cancellation reported
May 12, 2026
The NEET-UG 2026 examination was cancelled. Experts called for a review and structural reform of the NTA to address lax operational capacity, cybersecurity weaknesses, and poor crisis communication.
Shift to digital/hybrid exams and enhanced cybersecurity
2024
Reforms proposed to shift NEET-UG toward digital/hybrid examinations with strengthened cybersecurity measures.
High-level reform committee formed
2024
A high-level reform committee was created to review the functioning of the NTA and recommend structural reforms.
Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 enacted
2024
Following the NEET-UG 2024 controversy, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 was enacted to criminalise paper leaks, cheating syndicates, impersonation, and organised exam fraud.
Limited NEET-UG retest in 2024
2024
In 2024, a limited retest was held for 1,563 candidates who had received grace marks due to loss of exam time at certain centres.
NTA takes over NEET-UG administration
2019
The exam began to be conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) after taking over from the Central Board of Secondary Education in 2019.
NEET-UG first conducted
2013
NEET-UG was conducted for the first time in 2013.