The NEET 2024 exam has caused a significant stir across India, with controversies surrounding paper leaks and additional marks given to certain students creating a major headache for the authorities. As a result, the government has been under pressure to streamline the exam process and ensure its integrity. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts both the NEET and JEE exams, is now considering a major overhaul of the NEET exam format, with a two-phase exam potentially on the horizon.
Background: Controversies and the Need for Change
The latest edition of NEET UG 2024 saw allegations of paper leakage and reports that some students received extra marks after the exam. These issues led to widespread criticism, putting the NTA and the examination process under scrutiny. In response, the central government appointed an expert committee under the chairmanship of former ISRO chairman Radhakrishnan to evaluate how these exams are conducted and to propose solutions for improved efficiency and security.
Two-Phase NEET Exam: The Proposal
According to reliable sources, the Radhakrishnan Committee has recommended conducting the NEET exam in two phases, much like the JEE exam. Currently, 18 lakh students apply for the NEET exam each year, and the sheer number of candidates often leads to logistical challenges. The committee’s proposal suggests holding an initial screening test, followed by a second phase exam for those who qualify based on their performance in the first round. This approach would reduce the number of candidates and examination centers for the final stage, making the selection process more efficient.
The committee’s recommendation aligns with the JEE exam format, where only the top 1.5 lakh students who meet the minimum criteria are eligible to appear for the JEE Advanced exam. A similar structure is under discussion for NEET, which could streamline the process and reduce the overall number of candidates in the final phase.
Online and Offline Exam Format
There are also discussions around the exam format. The first phase of the NEET exam could be conducted online, with the second phase held offline. In this scenario, digital question papers could be sent to the exam centers just before the exam begins, to minimize the risk of leaks. Once received, the papers would be printed and distributed to candidates on-site.
Enhancing Security and Staffing
Another key recommendation from the committee involves strengthening the security measures for the NEET exam. The committee has suggested that the NTA hire permanent, expert staff to handle the exams, as many current employees are contract-based, which has raised concerns about data security and integrity. This move aims to ensure more secure and transparent exam management, minimizing the chances of malpractices.
The Path Forward
The final report on these recommendations is expected to be submitted shortly, which will provide clarity on whether these changes will be implemented for the upcoming NEET exams. The two-phase structure is likely to reshape the way NEET is conducted, addressing concerns over paper leaks, marking discrepancies, and other issues that have plagued the exam in recent years.
While the implementation of a two-phase exam may bring more structure and efficiency, it remains to be seen how this shift will impact the 18 lakh students who take the NEET exam each year and whether these changes will improve the integrity and fairness of the process.
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