Delhi govt to set up 'cooling zones' at exam centres for kin of NEET candidates
New Delhi, June 18
In a first-of-its-kind initiative ahead of the NEET-2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, the Delhi government on Thursday announced special arrangements for the convenience of candidates' parents and accompanying family members.
Delhi Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta, said that 'cooling zones' will be established at examination centres to ensure the comfort of those waiting outside in the summer heat during the examination. The facilities will include seating arrangements, clean drinking water, lemonade, and other essential amenities.
Meanwhile, ahead of the NEET (UG)-2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that nearly 16 lakh candidates have successfully downloaded their admit cards. The admit cards were released on June 14 for candidates appearing in the retest.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has transported question papers for the NEET-UG 2026 retest to 18 locations across the country as part of extensive security arrangements ahead of the examination.
The move comes amid heightened efforts by authorities to ensure that the re-examination is conducted smoothly, securely, and without any irregularities. Officials said the use of Air Force aircraft is intended to ensure the safe and timely delivery of question papers to designated distribution hubs nationwide.
The NTA, in coordination with other government agencies, has implemented a multi-layered security framework for the re-examination. Security personnel, local administration officials, and law enforcement agencies have been deployed to oversee the transportation, storage, and distribution of examination materials.
In addition, sensitive examination centres will be placed under enhanced surveillance. Authorities have introduced strict monitoring mechanisms to prevent any attempts to tamper with question papers or disrupt the examination process.
The NEET-UG 2026 retest will be conducted on June 21 for candidates affected by alleged leak issues identified during the earlier examination process.
The examination remains one of the largest entrance tests in the country and serves as the gateway for admission to undergraduate medical courses across India.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good step by Delhi govt, but why only for NEET? Our board exam parents also suffer. But I appreciate the move—better late than never. Also, IAF transporting papers? That's some serious security!
As an overseas Indian, this is interesting to see. The care for families is admirable, but I worry about the root cause—why do we need a retest due to leaks? Fixing the system should be priority #1.
IAF involvement ensures security, but thousands of students still face uncertainty. The government should compensate those affected by the leak with extra attempts or fee waivers. Only cooling zones won't cool their anxiety. 😒
Nice to see authorities thinking about families. In many countries, parents aren't even allowed near exam centres! But I'm curious—will these zones have fans or AC? In Delhi summer, cold water is essential. Hope they distribute ORS too.
A small step forward for parents, but we need bigger reforms. The NEET leak is a massive trust issue. Students prepare for years, and then such things happen. I hope the retest is smooth. Also, lemonade is a nice touch! 🍋
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