More than 20 lakh candidates participated in the re-examination of the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) on June 21, 2026,as the National Testing Agency (NTA) reported. The test took place at 5,440 centres across India and 14 international locations,although the number of participants was expected to be lower than 22.05 lakh who had initially registered for exam in May, which was cancelled due to a paper leak.
The re-exam was conducted in 13 languages,including Hindi and English. Many students found the test more challenging than previous one,particularly citing the Physics section as demanding due to its complexity and length. In contrast,Biology questions were primarily based on NCERT materials,while Chemistry posed moderate challenges.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a point to delay his departure from airport in Delhi after returning from Kolkata, ensuring that candidates faced no traffic disruptions on their way to the examination centres. Meanwhile, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan monitored the arrangements at the NTA headquarters, where officials briefed him on the logistical measures in place for a smooth examination process .
Special accommodations were made for candidates with disabilities,including over 10,000 individuals. Notably, 81 candidates with medical conditions received tailored support, such as a student undergoing chemotherapy. In Kolkata, a candidate injured in a recent accident was provided with a separate examination room and medical assistance .
The examination was scheduled from 2:00 p.m . to 5:15 p.m.,with candidates eligible for compensatory time allowed to continue until 6:20 p.m. Security measures included Aadhaar-based biometric and facial recognition checks,extensive CCTV monitoring, and two-layer frisking,all coordinated with local police forces. Command centres for surveillance were established at various levels, including national and state offices .
In total, around 7 lakh officials,including police and examination staff,were deployed nationwide to oversee the event. The NTA collaborated with multiple ministries and agencies, including the Indian Air Force and various banking partners, to ensure comprehensive security and logistical support .
Despite the extensive preparations, some candidates faced difficulties . In Bhopal,two students were denied entry after arriving late due to an accident. Amir Qadri,an uncle accompanying one of the aspirants,expressed frustration over the situation, stating that they were late because his nephew required first aid .
In Gujarat, nearly 79,400 candidates sat for the re-examination at 211 centres, where police utilized drones and additional personnel to maintain order. However, reports emerged of a candidate in Rajasthan who claimed she was initially denied entry due to her attire . Kulsum Bano alleged that she had worn the same burqa and dupatta during the earlier exam but faced scrutiny this time. The NTA later confirmed she was allowed to participate.
To combat potential electronic malpractice,the examination rooms were equipped with 1,38,560 CCTV cameras, with feeds monitored at multiple levels. Additionally,51,311 jammers were deployed to prevent unauthorized electronic devices from being used during the test. The NTA aimed to ensure fair and secure environment for all candidates amid the heightened scrutiny following the previous exam's cancellation.
