Dharmendra Pradhan writes to states, calls for smooth and secure conduct of NEET re-examination
New Delhi Ma, y 25
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has written to all Chief Ministers, Lieutenant Governors, and Administrators across the country, seeking their cooperation for the smooth, fair, and successful conduct of the NEET re-examination scheduled for June 21, the Ministry said in an official statement released on Monday.
"In view of the prevailing severe heatwave conditions, the Union Minister has also specifically urged them to ensure the availability of all essential basic facilities at examination centres for the convenience and well-being of aspirants," as per the Ministry.
In his letter, Shri Pradhan wrote: "In view of the prevailing heatwave conditions, I request you to kindly issue appropriate instructions to the District Authorities and all schools, colleges, universities, and other institutions hosting the examination in your State/UT to ensure the availability of essential basic amenities for the convenience of candidates. These may include safe drinking water, adequate seating arrangements, functional fans/coolers, clean washrooms, shaded waiting areas, uninterrupted electricity supply, and portable toilets, wherever required." Emphasizing that the interests and well-being of students are of paramount importance, the Minister called upon all State Governments to ensure adequate transportation facilities for candidates on the day of the examination, June 21.
Pradhan expressed confidence that all States would extend their full cooperation to ensure that the NEET (UG) 2026 re-examination is conducted in a smooth, transparent, and fair manner.
NEET-UG 2026, which was conducted on May 3 by the National Testing Agency (NTA), was cancelled on May 12 following allegations of a coordinated paper leak. The examination was held across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad at over 5,400 centres, with more than 22 lakh candidates appearing for the test.
— ANI
Reader Comments
While I appreciate the effort for student comfort, I'm more concerned about the integrity of the exam after the paper leak fiasco. Cancelling and re-conducting is one thing, but we need stronger security measures so such a massive leak doesn't happen again. 22 lakh students' futures were at stake. Transparency should be the priority over fans and coolers, though both matter.
Good move by the Minister. Our kids in rural areas suffer the most during such exams. I hope the states take this seriously and ensure all centres—especially in smaller towns—have proper facilities. Also, transportation for candidates on exam day is a great suggestion but will need coordination with local transport authorities. Let's see how it plays out on June 21.
Living in the US, I watch Indian education news closely. The NEET leak was shocking—so many students affected. The re-exam is necessary but also stressful for students who already prepared once. Excellent that Pradhan is pushing for basic amenities in the heat. India's education system needs more such student-centric steps.
Honestly, after the paper leak, this letter feels like a Band-Aid on a larger wound. Yes, heatwave precautions are important, but what about the psychological impact on students who studied for months and now have to appear again? The NTA needs a complete overhaul. Still, I hope this time everything goes smoothly and no cheating happens. 🙏✨
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.