The Central government is considering seeking help from the Indian armed forces to conduct the NEET-UG re-examination on June 21. If approved, this would become the first time the military assists in logistics for a national entrance examination.
The government is trying to ensure a secure and smooth re-exam for more than 2.2 million students after authorities cancelled the original NEET-UG exam over allegations of paper leaks and malpractice.
High-Level Meeting Held In Delhi
A high-level review meeting took place on Thursday at the residence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, senior government ministers, and top officials from the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the Education Ministry attended the meeting.
Officials reviewed every stage of the examination process, including question paper preparation, printing, transportation, security arrangements, and final delivery to exam centres.
Army And Air Force May Help With Logistics
A senior NTA official said the government may use Army and Air Force support mainly for transportation and emergency logistics.
“NEET-UG is the biggest pan-India level offline exam involving over 2.2 million students. We will take help from the Army in logistics wherever they can help us. With limited time remaining for the exam, the Air Force can help us in delivery of question papers in adverse weather conditions like rainfalls, storms etc. Not just Army, home ministry, state governments, Information Technology ministry, post department, civil aviation and ministry of external affairs are helping us in conducting the re-exam on June 21. We want to ensure an error-free and smooth exam,” the official said.
Military Role Limited To Transportation
Officials clarified that the armed forces will not supervise the examination process. Their role will remain limited to logistics, secure transportation of question papers, and emergency support during weather-related disruptions.
A Defence Ministry spokesperson declined to officially comment on the proposal.
First Such Role For Armed Forces
If the proposal receives approval, it will become the first time the Indian military formally assists with logistics for a national entrance test.
The armed forces usually support civil authorities during disasters and emergency situations. The Army often assists in rescue and flood relief operations, while the Air Force handles airlift missions and emergency transport. The Navy also conducts evacuation and rescue operations in India and abroad.
CBI Investigation Continues
Meanwhile, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) continues to investigate the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case. So far, the agency has arrested 13 people in connection with the examination irregularities.