The Central government is reportedly considering the use of Indian Air Force aircraft for transporting question papers for the upcoming NEET-UG retest scheduled on June 21, as part of efforts to ensure a secure and foolproof examination process.
According to reports, the proposal was discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.
The meeting reportedly focused on strengthening the entire examination ecosystem, including the setting, printing, transportation, and security of question papers following allegations of malpractice and paper leaks linked to the earlier examination.
Sources indicated that the possibility of using Indian Air Force aircraft for transportation of NEET-UG question papers was explored to ensure enhanced security and rapid movement of confidential material across the country.
However, officials stated that no final decision has yet been taken and that the proposal may be placed before Prime Minister Narendra Modi for further consideration.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) had conducted the NEET-UG examination on May 3 across 551 Indian cities and 14 overseas centres, with nearly 23 lakh candidates appearing for the test.
Following allegations of question paper leaks and examination malpractice, the NTA cancelled the examination on May 12 and announced a nationwide retest on June 21.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which is investigating the case, has so far arrested 13 accused from multiple cities including Delhi, Jaipur, Gurugram, Pune, Nashik, Latur, and Ahilyanagar.
Officials stated that special investigation teams have conducted nationwide searches and traced the source of the alleged question paper leak as part of the ongoing probe.
The proposed involvement of the Indian Air Force reflects the government’s emphasis on ensuring transparency, security, and credibility in one of the country’s largest competitive examinations.
