India Deploys Military and State Resources for NEET-UG Re-exam

The Government of India has launched an unprecedented security operation to conduct the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination on June 21 for over 2.2 million candidates. Following the cancellation of the May 3 exam due to paper leak allegations, the Indian Air Force executed more than 200 sorties starting June 13, using transport aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters to deliver question papers to 18-20 locations nationwide. These logistics included airlifting materials from Delhi to hubs like Madurai and performing trial landings at the Tirunelveli Armed Reserve Ground.

To prevent further leaks, the National Testing Agency restricted Telegram access across India until June 22 and implemented a multi-layered security system, including the quarantine of paper setters and the deployment of nearly 500,000 CRPF and CISF personnel. State governments are providing logistical support for students; Odisha and Assam have announced free bus services for candidates, while Uttar Pradesh is offering a 50 percent fare concession.

State leaders have integrated these preparations with other administrative tasks. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma mandated joint inspections of 87 centers and biometric audits. In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath coordinated the exam timing with International Yoga Day celebrations and issued directives for the upcoming observance of Muharram.