'Appear fearlessly': Minister Pradhan's message as 22 lakh sit NEET re-exam amid mounting pressure
New Delhi: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has appealed to more than 22 lakh NEET candidates to take the re-examination with confidence and without fear as the nationwide test gets underway on Sunday.
As over 22 lakh students prepare to appear for the NEET UG 2026 re-test, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan urged candidates to remain calm, confident and free from anxiety.
Speaking ahead of the examination, Pradhan said students should focus on performing their best and not allow external factors to affect their preparation or mental wellbeing.
Minister expresses confidence in exam arrangements
The minister said he has complete faith in the National Testing Agency (NTA), state governments, district administrations, educational institutions and examination officials responsible for conducting the re-test.
He expressed confidence that the examination would be conducted smoothly and encouraged candidates to approach the test with a positive mindset.
Appeal to protect students' mental health
Pradhan also appealed to the public and political stakeholders not to engage in actions that could negatively affect students' mental health.
He stressed that the future of India's younger generation should not be used for political or other purposes and urged everyone to act responsibly during the examination period.
The minister repeatedly emphasised that children should not be subjected to unnecessary stress at a time when they are focused on one of the country's most competitive entrance examinations.
Without naming any individual or organisation, Pradhan criticised certain "so-called responsible people" for allegedly making statements that created anxiety among students ahead of the re-test.
He urged all stakeholders to avoid causing further distress and instead support candidates appearing for the examination.
Background of the re-exam
The NEET UG 2026 examination was originally held on May 3 but was later cancelled following allegations of a paper leak. The controversy triggered widespread protests and demands for accountability.
Subsequently, the Centre directed the Central Bureau of Investigation to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the alleged irregularities.
The re-test is being conducted on June 21 under enhanced security arrangements, including biometric verification, AI-assisted CCTV monitoring, signal jammers and extensive deployment of security personnel.
The NEET UG examination is India's largest medical entrance test and plays a crucial role in admissions to undergraduate medical courses. Sunday's re-test is expected to be closely watched as authorities attempt to restore confidence in the examination system following weeks of controversy.