Over 22 lakh candidates to take NEET-UG re-test today under unprecedented security cover

More than 22 lakh candidates are set to appear for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination today, with authorities implementing one of the most extensive security operations ever undertaken for a public examination in India.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has put in place a multi-layered security framework aimed at ensuring the integrity of the examination following the cancellation of the May 3 test amid allegations of paper leaks and irregularities.

The pen-and-paper examination will be conducted across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. According to the NTA, more than 22.79 lakh candidates are expected to take the examination.

To oversee the process, over two lakh personnel have been mobilised, including city coordinators, observers, centre superintendents, invigilators, police personnel and district administration officials.

The agency has deployed 674 city coordinators and 6,669 observers for independent oversight at examination centres.

Security measures include Aadhaar-based biometric authentication, facial verification, mandatory frisking using metal detectors, GPS-enabled transportation of confidential examination material and real-time monitoring through centralised control rooms.

CCTV cameras have been installed at all examination centres, with live feeds being monitored by the NTA, district administrations and other designated authorities.

In a first for the examination, question papers were transported to several locations using Indian Air Force aircraft and helicopters to meet the compressed timeline for conducting the re-test.

Authorities said sealed question paper packets will remain under round-the-clock security and will be opened only shortly before the examination begins.

The NTA has also intensified its crackdown on examination fraud and misinformation. Ahead of the re-test, the agency launched a verified WhatsApp communication channel for candidates and warned students against fraudulent messages, fake paper leak claims and unauthorised services.

The government recently restricted access to Telegram until June 22, citing concerns over its alleged use by examination fraud networks. NTA Director General Abhishek Singh defended the move, stating that every necessary step would be taken to protect the interests of millions of students appearing for the examination.

Candidates have been advised to reach their examination centres well before reporting time, carry valid identification documents and strictly follow the prescribed dress code and examination guidelines.

The NEET-UG examination remains the gateway for admission to undergraduate medical courses across the country and is among the largest entrance tests conducted in India.