IAF Aircraft to Transport NEET UG 2026 Re-Exam Papers to 18 Locations

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will play a key role in the conduct of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination by transporting question paper packets to 18 locations across the country ahead of the June 21 test. Defense Ministry sources said the move is part of an extensive security arrangement designed to ensure the integrity of the examination process following the cancellation of the original exam held on May 3 amid allegations of a paper leak.

The re-examination is scheduled to take place on June 21 from 2 pm to 5:15 pm under heightened security measures. Authorities are aiming to prevent any compromise of examination materials and restore confidence among lakhs of candidates preparing to appear for one of India's most competitive entrance examinations. The decision to involve the Air Force is intended to strengthen the chain of custody of question papers and reduce the possibility of tampering during transportation.

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan had earlier announced that Air Force aircraft would be deployed for the secure movement of examination papers. Officials believe the use of military logistics will provide an additional layer of protection and ensure timely delivery of confidential materials to designated centers across the country. The measure forms part of a broader strategy to address concerns raised after the cancellation of the earlier examination.

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Apart from the Air Force's involvement, authorities have planned the deployment of nearly five lakh security personnel for examination-related duties nationwide. Enhanced surveillance mechanisms will also be put in place, including AI-enabled cameras and intensified monitoring of social media platforms. Officials hope these measures will help identify and prevent any attempts to leak examination content or spread misinformation before and during the test.

The security plan extends to the question paper preparation process as well. A team of teachers and subject experts assigned to prepare the examination paper has reportedly been kept under strict isolation for nearly three weeks. The members of the panel have been denied access to mobile phones and internet services as part of efforts to maintain complete confidentiality during the paper-setting exercise.

Authorities say the restrictions on the paper-setting team will remain in force until the examination concludes on June 21. The combined deployment of Air Force logistics, large-scale security personnel, advanced surveillance technology, and strict confidentiality protocols reflects the government's effort to conduct a leak-proof examination and rebuild public trust in the NEET-UG process after the controversy surrounding the earlier test.

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