National Testing Agency would meet on January 25,2021 to discuss the modalities of the exam this year. Possibility of conducting NEET 2021 online and twice a year in on the agenda for the panel’s discussion.

NEET undergraduate examination for admission to MBBS/BDS courses in the country is one of the largest competitive examinations in the world. As many as 16 lakh candidates register every year for the examination. NEET exam comprises Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) and is divided into three sections-- Physics, Chemistry and Biology (PCB). Usually, the Physics and Chemistry sections have 45 questions each and the Biology section has a total of 90 questions. After recent measures taken by the Ministry of Education in regards conducting JEE Main 2021 four times, many students have asked for more attempts at NEET. As per latest development, students might just get their wish.

The online mode of examination is an effective and efficient mode of testing across the world. However, with NEET, the modalities have to be checked and the testing agency, NTA would be sharing the logistics of the same on Monday.

Due to COVID19 pandemic, conducting an online examination would be the way forward. As for the number of attempts, with NEET the only examination in the country for admission to medical education, experts have been asking for possibility of multiple attempts. Final decision, however, lies with the Health Ministry. In the interaction with students, Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal has agreed to discuss the matter and the possibility of conducting the exam in online mode.

It may be pointed out that at the time of launch of National Testing Agency, many had protested at the suggestion of conducting NEET examination in online mode. The fact that many students from remote areas also appear for the examination and may not be too comfortable with online mode was raised.