The National Testing Agency (NTA) is currently awaiting the recommendations of a High-Powered Expert Committee, formed at the direction of the Supreme Court, regarding possible changes to the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) exam pattern for 2025. This committee was established to review and propose adjustments to the exam system, and its final report is expected to guide any upcoming modifications in the NEET-UG exam format.
The issue gained public attention when activist Dr. Vivek Pandey filed a Right to Information (RTI) application requesting the minutes of meetings held in July and August 2024 concerning potential changes to the NEET exam for 2024 and 2025. Dr. Pandey specifically asked for details of discussions held on altering the exam pattern in these meetings.
In response, the Central Public Information Officer (CPIO) stated that the information requested was "not available in the form desired" and, therefore, could not be provided. This prompted Dr. Pandey to file a first appeal, seeking the same information.
When the National Testing Agency (NTA) responded to the appeal, it reiterated that the information requested was "not available" and could not be furnished. Furthermore, the NTA disclosed that a High-Powered Expert Committee, created under the direction of the Supreme Court, was still in the process of finalizing its report on potential changes to the NEET exam. The report, once completed, would be submitted to the Supreme Court for review.
If the Government is introducing any changes, then the students should be informed now so that they can prepare accordingly
Dr. Vivek Pandey
Dr. Pandey, in an interview with Medical Dialogues, expressed concern that students should be informed well in advance of any changes in the exam pattern. “If the Government is introducing any changes, then the students should be informed now so that they can prepare accordingly. It would be unfair to notify them about potential changes only when the exam forms are released,” Dr. Pandey remarked.
This RTI inquiry has shed light on the uncertainty surrounding possible changes to the NEET-UG exam pattern, raising concerns among millions of aspiring medical students. However, according to the NTA’s response, any changes to the NEET exam format will be introduced only after the High-Powered Expert Committee submits its recommendations, and the government reviews them.
Such information could not be furnished as it is not available in the form you desire
CPIO
Earlier, Medical Dialogues had reported that following allegations of irregularities in the conduct of the NEET-UG 2024 exam, the Union Government formed an Expert Committee on June 22, 2024, to evaluate the exam process and recommend measures to improve its robustness. The Supreme Court, in its ruling on the matter, had found no systemic breaches in the NEET-UG 2024 exam. However, it issued a set of directives to the Expert Committee and tasked it with submitting its findings by September 30, 2024.
On September 24, 2024, the Union Government sought a three-week extension from the Supreme Court, citing the need for additional time for the Expert Committee to finalize its report. The Court granted the extension, and the new deadline was set for October 21, 2024. Recently, the central government informed the Supreme Court that the Expert Committee had finalized its report and recommendations regarding both the alleged irregularities in the NEET-UG 2024 exam and possible future changes to the exam pattern. The report is expected to be submitted to the Apex Court shortly.
The introduction of changes to the NEET exam format could have significant implications for the millions of students preparing for one of the most competitive exams in the country. As the government and judicial authorities await the Expert Committee’s final report, there is still considerable uncertainty about what these changes might entail and when they will be implemented.
In light of this, both students and educational experts are closely monitoring the situation. Dr. Pandey’s RTI has highlighted the importance of transparency and timely communication regarding any alterations to the exam process. Many believe that announcing changes well in advance will ensure that students are adequately prepared and can adjust their study strategies accordingly.
Once the Supreme Court reviews the committee's report, further developments regarding the NEET 2025 exam pattern will likely follow, offering clarity to students across India.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Yash Kamble.MSM)
