Politics · India · 1 hr ago
NEET-UG 2027 may stay pen-and-paper as reform panel gets more time
NEET-UG 2027 may remain a pen-and-paper exam, as a shift to computer-based testing is considered unlikely before 2028.
The exam is India’s national entrance test for students seeking undergraduate medical places.
The Centre extended the Nandan Nilekani-led task force’s term to January 27, 2027, so it can continue consultations and work towards agreement on exam reforms.
The six-member panel was set up to recommend ways to strengthen the examination system and prevent question paper leaks.
Southern states have raised concerns about infrastructure, fairness for rural students, school board differences and their role in exam decisions.
The panel’s recommendations are more likely to affect exams from 2028, while the health ministry, National Testing Agency and education ministry can decide how to conduct NEET-UG in 2027.
NEET-UG may remain a pen-and-paper exam in 2027, with a shift to computer-based testing considered unlikely before 2028.
The Centre has extended the tenure of the Nandan Nilekani-led examination reform task force until January 27, 2027.
The panel is expected to use the extension to consult states and build consensus on examination reforms.
Southern states have raised concerns about infrastructure, rural candidates, state representation and the effects of online exams.
Tamil Nadu has also argued that medical admissions should be based on Class 12 marks.
- Who
- The Centre and the Nandan Nilekani-led examination reform task force. Southern states have raised concerns about the proposed changes.
- What
- NEET-UG may remain in pen-and-paper format in 2027, while a task force reviews examination reforms.
- When
- The task force’s tenure has been extended until January 27, 2027. NEET-UG is conducted in May.
- Where
- India.
- Why
- The panel needs more time to consult states and build consensus on reforms, while officials say preparations for a 2027 format change would take time.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
The six-member task force chaired by Nandan Nilekani was constituted with an initial three-month mandate.
The Centre told the Supreme Court that the panel had held 18 meetings and more than 40 consultations and was on track to submit its report.
The task force’s extended tenure is due to end.
NEET-UG may continue in pen-and-paper format.
- Task force chair
- Nandan Nilekani
- Task force size
- Six members
- Extension deadline
- January 27, 2027
- Stakeholder feedback
- More than 54,000 suggestions and feedback
- Exam schedule
- NEET-UG is conducted in May
What people are saying
The HPTF is unlikely to suggest any changes in the method for NEET-UG 2027, as it will take time to prepare its report and finalise it for submission to the government
It has now been given an extension until January 27 to complete consultations with states and build consensus on examination-related reforms