New Delhi: India is preparing the infrastructure that could eventually allow NEET UG to move from the traditional pen-and-paper format to computer-based testing, a change that would reshape the country’s largest medical entrance examination.
National CBT strategy
The Ministry of Education is developing a national examination-grade Computer-Based Testing infrastructure strategy for future entrance examinations. The exercise is intended to strengthen the capacity required to conduct large-scale secure digital tests.
NEET shift is not yet confirmed
The development does not mean that NEET UG has already been moved online. A final decision is expected only after the government considers the report of the Nandan Nilekani-led task force examining reforms to India’s national examination system.
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Why infrastructure is the key challenge
NEET is taken by a very large number of candidates across the country. Any move to CBT would require sufficient secure computer terminals, reliable connectivity and power, geographically accessible centres, robust cybersecurity and contingency systems capable of handling disruptions.
Potential advantages and questions
Computer-based testing can strengthen question delivery, reduce dependence on physical papers and enable new security controls. At the same time, policymakers will have to address digital access, candidate familiarity with computers and equitable testing conditions across urban and rural India.
EduSutra Perspective
Moving NEET online would be much more than a change in examination format. It would require one of India’s largest education-technology infrastructure exercises. The quality and accessibility of the testing network will be as important as the technology itself.
