Government still weighing computer-based NEET overhaul, tells Supreme Court

The Union government told the Supreme Court on Tuesday that transitioning the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for undergraduate medical courses to a fully computer-based examination model is still being actively evaluated. The submission came during court proceedings examining potential reforms to the contentious entrance examination system that determines admission to medical colleges across India.

A task force constituted under the leadership of technology entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani is studying the feasibility and implementation framework for the shift. Government counsel informed the bench that the panel is expected to submit its report by the end of September, following which the Centre will review the recommendations for possible adoption.

The Supreme Court, while acknowledging the government's stance, pressed for clarity on the timeline for implementing any reforms once they are approved. The bench sought specific details on when concrete measures would be rolled out on the ground to address long-standing concerns about the examination's conduct and fairness.

The NEET-UG exam has faced persistent scrutiny over concerns regarding the examination process, including allegations of paper leaks and irregularities in previous administrations. The shift to computer-based testing is being explored as one potential measure to enhance the examination's integrity and standardization across different centres nationwide.