The Indian Air Force (IAF) has launched a large-scale operation to transport question papers for the upcoming NEET-UG 2026 re-examination. Working under strict secrecy, the Air Force has carried out more than 200 sorties over the past four days using transport aircraft and helicopters to ensure the safe delivery of examination materials across the country.

The operation began on June 13 and aims to protect the question papers from any security breaches during transit. Authorities expect the mission to conclude on Wednesday night, just days before the nationwide re-examination scheduled for June 21.

Government Takes Extraordinary Measures

The government introduced the unprecedented security operation after cancelling the original NEET-UG examination held on May 3. The cancellation affected more than 22 lakh candidates and triggered widespread protests from students across the country.

To restore confidence in the examination process, authorities decided to avoid conventional courier and postal networks entirely. Instead, they treated the confidential papers with the same level of security used for sensitive national assets.

Air Force Leads Nationwide Distribution

The IAF initially transported the question papers from two central distribution centres to 18 regional hubs across India.

Heavy transport aircraft, including the C-17 Globemaster III, played a key role in the operation. These aircraft carried the papers to major regional centres located across the country, from Patna in the north to Madurai in the south.

Officials designed the operation to eliminate weaknesses in the "chain of custody," the stage during which examination papers are most vulnerable to leaks and tampering.

Helicopters Handle Final Deliveries

After reaching regional hubs, the papers moved to local destinations through a second phase of transportation.

The Air Force deployed its Mi-17 helicopters to deliver materials to remote and sensitive locations. Security agencies also conducted trial exercises to test delivery procedures and safety measures before the actual movement of papers.

In Tamil Nadu, an army helicopter carried out a trial landing at the Tirunelveli Armed Reserve Ground. Officials immediately transferred the materials to local armed police personnel under tight security supervision.

Security Forces Guard Examination Materials

Authorities have implemented several layers of protection to secure the question papers until examination day. Personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) now guard secure storage facilities where the papers are being held.

The security arrangements form part of a larger plan developed by the Ministry of Education and the National Testing Agency (NTA) to prevent leaks and insider involvement.

Paper Setters Kept in Isolation

Authorities also introduced strict controls over the preparation of the new question papers. Teachers and subject experts responsible for creating the examination papers were placed in isolated facilities. Officials confiscated all communication devices and restricted outside contact to prevent any possibility of digital leaks before the examination.

The move aims to ensure complete confidentiality throughout the paper-setting process.

Additional Digital Safeguards Introduced

The government has also taken steps to prevent the online circulation of leaked or fake answer keys. As part of these measures, authorities imposed a temporary and targeted restriction on the Telegram messaging platform in India until June 22. Officials believe the step will help disrupt channels that have previously been used to distribute unauthorised exam-related content.

Massive Security Presence Planned for Exam Day

Security preparations will continue through the examination day on June 21. Nearly five lakh security personnel, invigilators and support staff will be deployed across examination centres nationwide.

Authorities will use real-time monitoring systems, AI-powered CCTV surveillance and facial verification technology to strengthen security and maintain the integrity of the examination process.

Focus on Restoring Confidence

The extensive operation reflects the government's efforts to rebuild trust in one of India's most important entrance examinations. By combining military transport, multi-layered security arrangements and advanced monitoring technologies, authorities hope to ensure a leak-free re-examination and provide a fair testing environment for millions of candidates.