The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination took place nationwide and overseas on Sunday with stringent security measures in place to ensure a fair process. This retest, one of the largest and most closely monitored in the country’s history, followed the cancellation of the original May 3 exam by the National Testing Agency due to ongoing investigations of question paper leaks.
More than 22 lakh candidates participated in the re-exam held at 5,440 centers across 551 Indian cities and 14 overseas locations. The exam, conducted from 2 p.m. to 5.15 p.m., provided additional compensatory time for eligible candidates with disabilities. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan oversaw the arrangements from the NTA headquarters in Delhi, encouraging students to approach the exam without stress.
The nationwide effort involved nearly seven lakh officials, including exam staff, police, and observers, with over 95,000 exam rooms under CCTV surveillance through 1.38 lakh cameras. Additionally, more than 51,000 signal jammers were deployed to prevent electronic malpractice. The re-exam proceeded smoothly across states, with feedback indicating Biology as manageable, Chemistry as moderate, and Physics as the most challenging section.
In various regions like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat, candidates shared their experiences, highlighting the varying difficulty levels of different sections. Instances of logistical challenges were also observed, with authorities providing extraordinary support to candidates facing difficulties, such as arranging separate exam rooms for injured students and assisting those who arrived late due to unforeseen circumstances.
Strict entry protocols led to some candidates facing disappointment, while heavy rainfall in Kolkata and other disruptions prompted early departures for some examinees. However, overall, candidates appreciated the heightened security measures, including enhanced frisking, biometric verification, and surveillance systems, aimed at rebuilding trust in the examination process.
