Security Arrangements and Exam Day Protocols: The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) UG 2025 is set to be conducted on May 4 across 550 cities in India, with a record number of over 23 lakh candidates expected to appear. This year, however, the exam comes under an intensified security protocol following widespread irregularities and malpractice allegations in 2024 that raised serious questions about the credibility of India’s largest medical entrance exam.
In a direct response to last year’s shocking security lapses — from paper leaks to the arrest of impersonators — the Ministry of Education (MoE) and National Testing Agency (NTA) have overhauled NEET UG’s logistical and exam-day framework. Key measures include police-escorted transport of question papers, biometric verification of candidates, multi-layered frisking, and active real-time monitoring of all exam centres. Admit cards are soon to be released on the official website neet.nta.nic.in, following the city intimation slips.
NEET UG 2025 Security and Exam Summary
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | NEET UG 2025 |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Date | May 4, 2025 |
| Mode of Exam | Pen and paper mode |
| No. of Candidates | Over 23 lakh |
| Cities & Centres | 550 cities, approx. 5,000 centres |
| Admit Card Release | To be released soon at neet.nta.nic.in |
| New Security Measures | • Police-escorted question paper delivery • Biometric authentication • Frisking by police • Real-time monitoring |
| Major Changes from Last Year | • Removal of optional COVID questions • Exam in single shift • Old format retained |
| Minimum Eligibility for MBBS | Must qualify NEET UG with valid percentile |
| Grievance Redressal Mechanism | NTA’s dedicated platform for reporting impersonation or malpractice |
| Legal Action Framework | Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 |
| WhatsApp Official Channel | Join WhatsApp Channel |
| Telegram Official Channel | Join Telegram Channel |
What are the new NEET UG 2025 security measures?
NEET UG 2025 includes police-escorted question papers, biometric authentication, live monitoring, and real-time inspections to prevent exam malpractice.
NEET UG 2025: A Test Reimagined After Controversy
Following a turbulent 2024 that saw NEET UG mired in scandals, the Centre has adopted a zero-tolerance approach to any malpractice this year. Last year’s exam was heavily criticized after confidential materials such as question papers were reportedly transported in e-rickshaws without security. Investigations revealed a wide network of solver gangs, impersonators, and even high-profile arrests in connection to the leak.
To rebuild trust, a Supreme Court-mandated seven-member panel, led by ex-ISRO chief K. Radhakrishnan, recommended sweeping reforms. Though suggestions like multiple shifts and age limits were considered, the 2025 exam will follow the traditional format but with heightened vigilance.
How Security Will Work on NEET 2025 Exam Day
To prevent any possibility of repeat malpractices, authorities will follow a stringent protocol:
- Police-Escorted Logistics: Question papers and OMR sheets will be delivered under the watch of armed police escorts.
- Biometric Authentication: Each candidate will undergo biometric verification before entering exam halls.
- Surveillance Measures: Local police will frisk candidates, and live monitoring systems will track centre activities in real time.
- Authority Inspections: District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police will conduct personal inspections pre- and mid-exam.
- Reporting Platform: A new portal allows candidates and observers to report suspicious behaviour or content, including leaked material on digital platforms.
What Led to the NEET UG Crackdown?
The NEET UG 2024 scandal came to light after a series of investigative findings, including the arrest of medical students, engineering graduates, and exam centre officials. Burnt paper matches, Telegram-leaked questions, and impersonation networks shook the nation’s confidence in the fairness of the exam.
One viral incident showed question papers being ferried in open, unsecured e-rickshaws, triggering public outrage. Further probe led to the arrest of NIT graduate Shashi Kumar Paswan, believed to be the mastermind of the NEET solver racket. A re-test was ordered for 1,563 students who received grace marks, but nearly half didn’t show up, further underlining the crisis of credibility.
A Supreme Court bench remarked, “The NEET exam sanctity has been affected,” but chose not to cancel the exam entirely due to insufficient statistical evidence.
What Lies Ahead: Legal Action and Future Reforms
The Centre has committed to continuing its examination reforms through legal and institutional mechanisms. The newly enacted Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024 criminalizes organized cheating, impersonation, and question paper leaks. Meanwhile, state and central agencies remain on high alert in the run-up to NEET UG 2025.
Candidates are advised to stay vigilant, follow official announcements, and prepare earnestly, as strict enforcement measures leave no room for unfair advantages.
Stay tuned to neet.nta.nic.in and trusted information channels for real-time updates.
