NEET-UG will continue in pen-and-paper mode, NTA confirms – CNBC TV18

NEET-UG will continue in pen-and-paper mode, NTA confirms – CNBC TV18



The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) UG will be conducted in pen-and-paper (OMR-based) mode on a single day and in shifts, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced on Thursday, January 16. The decision, made after consultation between the education and health ministries, puts an end to speculation about the change to the online format.

NEET remains the country’s biggest medical entrance exam, with over 24 lakh candidates set to appear for the exam in 2024. It serves as a uniform qualifying examination for undergraduate medical courses including MBBS, BAMS, BUMS, BSMS, BHMS and BSc. , Nursing under Military Nursing Service (MNS).

NTA emphasized that the format of the examination is in line with the recommendations of the National Medical Commission (NMC) to maintain a standard assessment for medical and allied health courses across India. B.Sc. Interested candidates. Nursing courses in Armed Forces Medical Services hospitals will also have to qualify through NEET (UG), their scores will be used for shortlisting.

In 2025, admissions will be offered for about 1,08,000 MBBS seats, which includes about 56,000 seats in government colleges and 52,000 seats in private institutions. Additionally, NEET results will be used for admission to dentistry, Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha programmes.

The decision to retain the pen-and-paper format has been taken after deliberations over alleged irregularities in NEET, including the paper leak controversy last year. A high-level panel led by former ISRO chief R Radhakrishnan explored possible reforms, including multi-stage testing, but recommended maintaining the traditional format for now.

The panel’s suggestions and the ongoing CBI investigation into alleged examination irregularities highlight the importance of transparent and secure testing processes. NTA officials said that for the time being, the pen-and-paper mode ensures consistency and fairness.

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