The Centre has informed the Supreme Court that no final decision has been taken on shifting the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG) to a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, making it clear that any transition will depend on the recommendations of the high-powered task force headed by technology expert Nandan Nilekani.
The clarification comes amid growing calls for reforms in India’s medical entrance examination system following the controversies surrounding the 2026 NEET-UG examination, including allegations of paper leaks and concerns over examination security. The Centre stated that while the possibility of conducting NEET in an online format is under active consideration, no timeline has been finalised, and the government will first examine the task force’s recommendations before taking a final call.
The matter reached the Supreme Court through petitions seeking structural reforms in the conduct of NEET-UG. During the proceedings, the government emphasised that the proposed transition is not merely about changing the mode of examination but also about ensuring robust cybersecurity, secure databases, and a fair testing environment for millions of aspirants.
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The Nilekani-led committee has been tasked with recommending comprehensive technology-driven reforms to strengthen India’s public examination system. Its suggestions are expected to address critical aspects such as digital infrastructure, cybersecurity safeguards, examination logistics, and measures to prevent future leaks while ensuring accessibility for students across the country.
The Supreme Court also acknowledged that moving a nationwide examination like NEET to an online format requires additional safeguards beyond existing systems. The judges observed that issues such as cyber resilience and data protection must be thoroughly addressed before implementing any large-scale digital examination.
For now, NEET aspirants can expect the existing examination format to continue until the government’s expert panel submits its report and the Centre decides on the future course of action. The eventual recommendations are likely to shape not only NEET but also the broader framework for conducting secure, transparent, and technology-enabled public examinations in India.