NEET Counselling Schedule Delayed, Health Ministry Yet to Announce Dates

The Union Health Ministry has issued a clarification regarding the counselling schedule for NEET UG and PG courses for the year 2024, emphasizing that it has not yet been notified by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC).

Current Status of NEET Counselling Schedule

1. Notification Awaited: The Medical Counselling Committee (MCC), under the Directorate General of Health Services, is responsible for announcing the counselling schedule. This schedule is based on the completion of the exam process and the finalization of the seat matrix by the National Medical Commission (NMC).

2. Previous Years' Counselling Dates: In previous years, the counselling for NEET UG seats commenced on specific dates: January 19, 2022, October 11, 2022, and July 20, 2023.

3. Schedule by NMC: For the year 2024, the NMC has communicated its schedule for finalizing the seat matrix:

   • UG seat matrix by the third week of July.
   • PG seat matrix by mid-August.

4. MCC Notification: The MCC will notify the counselling schedule based on the NMC's finalization of seat matrices.

Background and Developments

• Controversy and Scrutiny: NEET UG 2024 has faced scrutiny over alleged malpractices, prompting concerns and discussions about its cancellation. However, the Centre and the National Testing Agency (NTA) have defended the examination's integrity in the Supreme Court, emphasizing the importance of evidence before any decision.

• Recent Actions: Subodh Singh was replaced as the NTA director general amidst allegations of irregularities. A high-level panel, headed by former ISRO chief K Radhakrishnan, has been appointed to ensure fair conduct of examinations through the agency.

• Cancellation of UGC-NET: In contrast, the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) was cancelled due to reported compromises in exam integrity, leading to its cancellation pending further investigation.

• Ongoing Investigations: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is currently investigating allegations related to NEET UG, ensuring transparency and addressing concerns over exam malpractices.