NEET-UG 2026: Mock Drill and Security Measures Ahead of Re-Examination

The NEET-UG 2026 re-examination is set for June 21, with over 22.79 lakh candidates expected to participate. The National Testing Agency (NTA) is conducting a mock drill to ensure security and transparency. Extensive measures, including GPS tracking for exam paper transport and a multi-layered security system, are in place. Candidates are reminded to download their new admit cards and adhere to guidelines for the exam day. State-level arrangements are also being made to facilitate candidates' travel. Stay informed and prepared for this crucial examination.

By Ambika Singh Jun 20, 2026, 09:49 IST

Mock Drill and Security Preparations

In anticipation of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination, the National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct a mock drill across the nation on Saturday. This initiative aims to ensure that the examination is conducted in a secure and transparent manner, with extensive security arrangements involving police, district administration, and central agencies.

Examination Details

Scheduled for June 21, this examination will see participation from over 22.79 lakh candidates. More than 5,000 examination centers have been established across 551 cities in India and 14 cities abroad. According to the NTA, over 200,000 personnel, 674 city coordinators, and 6,669 invigilators will be deployed. The exam will take place in a pen-and-paper format from 2:00 PM to 5:15 PM, with additional time allocated for eligible PwD and PwBD candidates, allowing them to complete their exams until 6:20 PM.

Reason for Re-Examination

Why Was the NEET Re-Examination Necessary?

The original NEET-UG exam was conducted on May 3, 2026. Following the exam, allegations surfaced regarding question paper leaks and some candidates receiving the paper in advance. After identifying discrepancies during the investigation, the NTA canceled the exam on May 12. Consequently, based on reviews by the central government and investigative agencies, the decision was made to hold a re-examination.

Admit Card Information

NTA Clarifies on Admit Card Downloads

The NTA has clarified that candidates who have already downloaded the new admit card for the NEET-UG exam on June 21 do not need to download it again. Messages sent via SMS, email, and WhatsApp are primarily for those who have yet to download their new admit cards.

The agency noted that the admit cards issued on May 3 are no longer valid, as many students have been assigned new examination centers in their preferred cities. The new admit card for the June 21 exam will be available for download and printing, and candidates must present this card to participate in the examination.

Security Measures for Examination

GPS Tracking for Exam Paper Transport

The NTA has announced that a mock drill will be conducted on Saturday to verify security and operational arrangements. The district administration, police, and escort teams will be responsible for securely transporting the examination papers and other confidential materials to the centers.

Each center will have a center superintendent and invigilators present. A multi-layered security system has been established, with confidential question papers and materials stored under strict sealing protocols. Vehicles transporting examination materials will be equipped with GPS tracking and police escorts. All examination centers will be monitored via CCTV, with live monitoring from a centralized control room.

Guidelines for Candidates

Important Reminders for Candidates

Considering the heat and the large number of candidates, the NTA has ensured that all examination centers are equipped with power backup, adequate lighting, fans, drinking water, toilets, and medical assistance.

Candidates are allowed to bring transparent water bottles. Those with diabetes may carry sugar tablets and fruits like bananas, apples, or oranges. Additionally, candidates wearing religious or traditional attire, or full-sleeved or woolen clothing, are advised to arrive early to accommodate security checks.

Monitoring for Rumors

Appeal Against Rumors; Social Media Monitoring

The NTA has stated that it is actively monitoring social media platforms to prevent the spread of rumors and discrepancies. Complaints have been filed with 14C/MHA, CBI, and other cyber-crime agencies, and actions are being taken against suspicious activities.

Candidates are urged to rely solely on official information and to disregard rumors related to paper leaks or the examination. They are instructed to report any suspicious messages or channels to the NTA or cyber-crime agencies. The agency encourages students to remain calm, trust their preparation, and utilize mental health helplines like Tele-Mannas (14416) if needed.

State Preparations for NEET Re-Examination

State-Level Arrangements

Delhi: Candidates will be able to travel for free on DTC and cluster buses, available for both inbound and outbound journeys. Cooling zones will be set up outside examination centers for parents, providing ORS drinks, drinking water, and lemonade.

Madhya Pradesh: Special trains connecting Indore, Bhopal, and Ratlam will operate on June 20.

Telangana: Students can travel for free on state government RTC buses by showing their NEET hall tickets.

Maharashtra: All 1,820 local trains in Mumbai will run on their full schedule, with no 'mega block' planned on any Central Railway route.

Despite a ban on Telegram, attempts were made to sell fake NEET exam papers from Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Police have detained a student involved in this case, who was using a US-based virtual private network (VPN) to access Telegram; his channel was named 'Paper Mafia.'