The Centre is considering involving the Indian defence forces to strengthen logistics and transportation arrangements for the NEET-UG 2026 re-test scheduled on June 21, following the cancellation of the earlier examination over alleged question paper leaks.
According to top sources in the Ministry of Defence, a high-level meeting regarding the issue was recently held at the residence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The meeting was attended by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and senior officers from the Indian Air Force.
Proposal To Strengthen Security
Officials said a proposal has been prepared to use the IAF for transportation and logistics support in moving question papers securely from printing presses to examination centres across the country.
The final decision is expected after consultations with the Prime Minister’s Office.
Currently, question papers are transported through the postal network, which involves multiple handling stages and officials. Sources said the proposed IAF-supported mechanism is aimed at reducing the risk of paper leaks and strengthening examination security protocols.
“IAF will discuss the practical details with officials concerned with the examination to execute the plan if it gets approval from the Ministry,” an official said.
NEET-UG Cancelled After Leak Allegations
The NEET-UG 2026 examination was originally conducted on May 3 for over 22 lakh candidates across India.
However, the National Testing Agency cancelled the examination on May 12 following allegations of an organised question paper leak and suspected insider involvement.
The case is currently being investigated by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
So far, the CBI has arrested 11 accused from multiple states, including Delhi, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the alleged leak.
Security Measures Likely To Increase
Officials indicated that the Centre is exploring stricter security and logistical measures to restore confidence in the examination process before the re-test.
The proposed involvement of the defence forces is being viewed as an effort to ensure secure handling, transportation and distribution of question papers on a national scale.
