Will NEET shift to online mode after the 2026 paper leak row?

New Delhi: The cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 amid allegations of a question paper leak has intensified discussions within the education sector over major structural reforms proposed for the country’s medical entrance examination system, including a possible shift to hybrid and computer-based testing formats.

The controversy surrounding the May 3 examination has once again exposed vulnerabilities in the existing pen-and-paper model and revived demands from students and experts for a technology-driven overhaul of the examination process conducted by the National Testing Agency.

Also read | ‘What is our fault?’: NEET aspirants devastated after exam cancellation

The spotlight has now turned to the recommendations of the expert committee headed by former K Radhakrishnan, which was constituted after the NEET-UG 2024 controversy to strengthen examination security and improve transparency in high-stakes tests.

Among the key recommendations made by the panel was the adoption of secure digital technologies, including a proposed “Digi-Exam” framework modelled on Digi-Yatra, along with blockchain-backed audit trails to track examination processes and reduce the risk of tampering.

Also read | How a Kerala MBBS student’s forwarded PDF helped expose the NEET paper leak

The committee also proposed transitioning NEET-UG towards Computer-Based Testing (CBT) and hybrid examination formats in a phased manner to minimise physical handling of question papers and curb paper leak risks. One hybrid option under discussion involves digital delivery of question papers while candidates continue marking responses on OMR sheets.

To improve infrastructure security, the panel recommended establishing nearly 1,000 dedicated and secure testing centres across the country, with priority given to government-owned buildings for conducting sensitive national-level examinations.

The recommendations further called for restructuring the NTA by increasing permanent staffing and reducing dependence on outsourced personnel, a move aimed at strengthening institutional accountability and operational control.

The panel also stressed the need for stronger coordination between the Centre and state governments in conducting high-stakes examinations to ensure better surveillance, logistics management and law enforcement support.

Despite the recommendations being submitted nearly two years ago, several major reforms are yet to be implemented. According to sources cited by Times Now, approval for transitioning NEET-UG to a CBT or hybrid model is still pending with the Union Health Ministry.

The latest NEET controversy erupted after reports of a paper leak surfaced in multiple states, leading to investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group and the Central Bureau of Investigation.

The NTA on Tuesday cancelled NEET-UG 2026 and announced that the examination would be reconducted on dates to be notified later. The agency said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India to maintain transparency and public trust in the examination system.