Centre Considers Switching NEET-UG from Pen-and-Paper to Online Format

The Indian government is considering conducting the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) online starting next year, following reports of suspected leaks and nationwide protests. Currently, NEET is an annual pen-and-paper multiple-choice question test. The Health Ministry has previously resisted suggestions to switch to an online mode, but a computer-based test, like the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) Main or JEE Advanced, is now being considered a viable option.

In June, the Centre established a seven-member panel led by former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan to recommend reforms in testing procedures and data security protocols, as well as review the National Testing Agency's structure and functioning. The Health Ministry's previous concerns about computer-based tests were that they would disadvantage poor and rural students. However, a senior government official pointed out that many rural students qualify for JEE Main and JEE Advanced, both computer-based tests.

The final decision on switching to the online mode rests with the National Medical Commission (NMC). Sources within the NMC acknowledged that an online exam is a "serious option." However, transitioning to a computer-based test involves "normalisation" due to multiple versions of the paper being used. This year, 24 lakh candidates appeared for NEET-UG; if it moves online, the exam will need to be conducted over multiple shifts and days.

Advantages of a computer-based test include greater integrity and fewer vulnerabilities in the process. Professors involved in conducting JEE attribute its integrity to two factors: it is entirely computer-based, and the IITs have "absolute control" over JEE Advanced. An IIT professor who has headed this process in the past said that fewer people involved in the process reduces the risk of system compromise.

Overall, the shift to an online NEET-UG exam aims to address security concerns and ensure a more robust and reliable testing process for medical aspirants across the country.