NTA conducts nationwide mock drill for NEET-UG 2026 re-exam preparedness

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is conducting a comprehensive nationwide mock drill on June 21 ahead of the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination to ensure security protocols, coordination between agencies, and transparent exam conduct. The drill involves approximately 250,000 personnel including exam supervisors, invigilators, police, district administration, technical staff, and security agencies across examination centers nationwide. Background: NEET-UG 2026 faced massive controversy with alleged paper leak in June 2024, leading to cancellation and re-examination demand. Supreme Court intervened; multiple FIRs filed; CBI and ED initiated probes into alleged malpractice networks. This re-exam represents high-stakes attempt to restore credibility of India's premier medical entrance examination. Mock drill objectives: Test communication systems, verification protocols, biometric authentication, document verification, answer sheet handling, and emergency response procedures. Medical colleges admission depends entirely on NEET; approximately 18-20 lakh candidates appear annually. Security measures: CCTV monitoring, phone restrictions, barcode-based tracking, AI-assisted anomaly detection. Exam angle: Questions expected on: examination reforms, technology in governance, institutional credibility, student grievances, examination transparency mechanisms. Constitutional context: Right to education, fair opportunity in merit-based selection. Connection: Previous UPSC questions on examination malpractice, institutional accountability, and digital governance.