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India News Updated Jun 21, 2026

PM Modi Delays Airport Departure to Help NEET Aspirants Reach Exam Centres

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delayed his departure from the Delhi airport to prevent traffic congestion for NEET-UG re-examination students. Over 22 lakh students appeared for the exam after the initial test was cancelled due to a question paper leak. Union Minister Sukanta Mazumdar praised Modi's gesture as a reflection of responsible leadership. The NTA implemented extensive security measures including CCTV, jammers, and biometric staff across exam centres.

PM Modi delays airport departure to ease traffic for NEET-UG re-examination students

New Delhi, June 21

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delayed his departure from the Delhi airport on Sunday to prevent traffic congestion, ensuring that students heading to the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination faced no inconvenience, sources said.

The exam was scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM.

Although the Prime Minister arrived at the airport at 1:15 PM, he chose to delay his departure until after 2:00 PM to facilitate the smooth movement of students toward their examination centres.

Union Minister Sukanta Mazumdar praised the gesture, stating, "For some, power means privilege. For PM Narendra Modi, it means responsibility. Choosing to wait at the airport so NEET aspirants could travel smoothly to their examination centres reflects a leadership style that puts citizens first."

Approximately over 22 lakh students are appearing for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination across the country, following the cancellation of the initial May 3 exam due to a question paper leak.

The entry for the exam centres followed a strict process with metal dectectors in place.

To ensure a secure and efficient examination process, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has implemented comprehensive security and surveillance measures across the exam rooms.

The rooms are equipped with CCTV cameras that are being monitored. Jammers provided by ECIL and BEL have also been deployed.

The NTA has stationed two invigilators in every room, with over ten functionaries present at each centre.

The frisking staff numbers 38,795 and there is 48,448 biometric staff for face authentication, approximately 6,700 observers, over 100 virtual observers, and an average of 40-50 security personnel per centre.

Logistical security has been prioritized through the mobilization of police, paramilitary forces, the Indian Air Force, and the Department of Posts, with all confidential materials verified at custodian banks.

The NTA has also focused on candidate welfare by providing drinking water, ORS, and ambulances at centers, along with shade and seating for waiting parents. Additionally, exam rooms are equipped with wall clocks and extra rough sheets--including versions for left-handed candidates--while extended time has been allotted to offset the necessary entry formalities.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Sneha F

A great leadership moment indeed. But I hope the government also ensures such sensitivity for the normal challenges students face daily—like exam paper leaks, lack of infrastructure in rural areas, and mental health support. One gesture is good, but systemic change is better. Still, credit where it's due 👍

James A

Impressive to see such personal attention to detail from a head of state. In many countries, PMs are shielded from these small inconveniences. Modi Ji's willingness to adjust his schedule for students reflects a very grounded approach. India's exam logistics for NEET are immense—22 lakh students is no joke! 🇮🇳

Arjun K

Ab aisi baatein karna trend ban gaya hai. Modi Ji ne wait kiya toh achha hai, lekin usko 'power means responsibility' ka example banana thoda overkill hai. NEET exam ki gaddbadi aur question paper leak toh pehle hui, uspe koi baat nahi? Real responsibility would be fixing the system so lakhs of students don't have to go through re-exams. Just saying... 🤷‍♂️

Lauren Z

It's a nice human moment. But honestly, shouldn't traffic management be handled through better planning rather than relying on the PM's personal sacrifice? What about other VIP movements that cause similar chaos? The real heroes are the 38,000 security staff and everyone working to make this exam happen smoothly. 🙌

Nisha Z

As a NEET aspirant's mother, this news touched my heart. My daughter was so stressed with the re-exam drama, and knowing that even our PM cared enough to not

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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