NEET-PG 2025 Postponed: NBEMS Tells SC Earliest Possible Date Is August 3
The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has informed the Supreme Court that the NEET-PG 2025 exam cannot be conducted before August 3. The reason? A combination of logistical challenges and the Supreme Court’s directive requiring the exam to be held in a single shift this year.
NEET-PG 2025 Postponement Explained
Initially scheduled for June 15, the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Postgraduate courses (NEET-PG) has been postponed following a recent Supreme Court order. The Court directed NBEMS to conduct the test in a single shift, rather than the two-shift format used in 2024. This move was prompted by concerns related to fairness and uniformity for all candidates.
In response, NBEMS submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court, stating that August 3 is the earliest possible date by which the exam can now be held. This delay is essential for the necessary preparations and logistical restructuring required to examine just one shift nationwide.
Logistical Challenges in Conducting NEET-PG in One Shift
The NBEMS emphasized that shifting to a single-shift format significantly increases operational complexity. According to the affidavit, at least 1,000 test centers are required across 250 cities. This scale of operation demands massive coordination and resource mobilization.
Key personnel involved include:
- Venue Commanding Officers
- System Operators
- Invigilators
- Security Staff
- Lab and Registration Managers
- Electricians
In total, approximately 60,000 individuals must be deployed to ensure smooth and secure conduct of the exam.
NBEMS’s affidavit notes that organizing all these resources and infrastructure within a compressed timeline is unfeasible, hence the request for a delay until August 3.
TCS Involvement and Tech-Based Exam Format
The NEET-PG is a computer-based test, conducted in partnership with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). Given the nature of the exam, the need for fully equipped computer labs with stable internet, adequate power backup, and secured systems adds another layer of logistical intricacy.
TCS, as NBEMS’s technology partner, plays a central role in facilitating the exam at this scale. Their systems need to be aligned with the requirement of a single-shift operation, which is a substantial departure from the usual multi-shift framework.
Security Concerns and Anti-Malpractice Measures
Describing NEET-PG as a “high-stakes and flagship exam,” NBEMS pointed out the heightened risk of malpractices when so many candidates take the exam simultaneously. To mitigate such threats, the board has highlighted the necessity of involving law enforcement agencies for coordination and security.
“Attempts to do malpractice is a major challenge,” the affidavit states. It underscores the importance of deploying strong anti-cheating measures, thorough surveillance, and centralized control over exam centres.
Student Convenience and Additional Steps
NBEMS also indicated that steps would be taken to allow students to select their preferred test centres, a move aimed at reducing travel-related difficulties and making the exam process more candidate-friendly.
However, this further complicates the timeline, as centre selection needs to be integrated into the scheduling and logistics planning. Ensuring fair distribution of candidates across centres without exceeding capacity is critical in a single-shift setup.
Conclusion: What This Means for Aspirants
For the nearly 2 lakh medical graduates who appear for NEET-PG each year, this postponement introduces a significant change in preparation timelines. While the delay may bring some uncertainty, the assurance of a uniform exam experience across all candidates is a welcome development.
The Supreme Court’s directive to hold the exam in a single shift aims to enhance transparency and equality, but it also brings logistical and operational demands that require careful planning.
As things stand, August 3 is the earliest realistic date for NEET-PG 2025, and candidates should prepare accordingly. Further updates will likely follow once NBEMS finalizes the schedule in coordination with TCS and relevant government authorities.
Key Takeaways:
- NEET-PG 2025, initially set for June 15, postponed to no earlier than August 3.
- Supreme Court mandated a single-shift exam for fairness.
- NBEMS requires time to organize over 1,000 centers across 250 cities and deploy more than 60,000 personnel.
- The exam is computer-based and conducted with TCS as tech partner.
- Enhanced security protocols and candidate-friendly measures, such as centre selection, will be implemented.
Stay tuned to official NBEMS announcements for the updated exam date and instructions.
