Government Awaits Nilekani Task Force Report Before Deciding on Computer-Based NEET

The centre told the Supreme Court that any move to shift NEET to a digital format will be decided after the Nilekani-led task force submits its recommendations.

Facing a plea from the All India Medical Association after a leak of this year’s NEET paper, the central government appeared before the Supreme Court and outlined its plan to make the exam tamper-proof, citing harsh penalties for malpractice and the creation of a task force. The task force, chaired by Nandan Nilekani, is charged with overhauling India’s public examination system and will submit a report that will guide the next steps.

Officials indicated that converting NEET to a computer-based format—either as a single exam or a two-stage process similar to the JEE—is currently being examined by all relevant parties. The decision on the mode of testing will be taken only after the task force’s recommendations are considered. Meanwhile, the National Testing Agency has already transitioned seven out of eight major examinations to digital platforms, with NEET remaining the only major pen-and-paper test. The government emphasized that the move aims to enhance security and integrity of the entrance exam.