After NEET leak row, IAF airlifts question papers for Re-Exam security
In a major security overhaul following the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak controversy, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has deployed the Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster aircraft to transport confidential question papers for the June 21 re-examination, including consignments destined for Patna and other key centres across the country.
The unprecedented move comes after the original NEET-UG 2026 examination, held on May 3, was cancelled amid allegations of a question paper leak, prompting the Centre and NTA to introduce stringent safeguards to restore confidence in the medical entrance examination process.
According to reports, the Indian Air Force is airlifting sealed question paper packets to 18 designated locations under multi-layer security arrangements. After landing, the papers will be transported to examination centres under strict surveillance and security protocols.
The NTA has also placed question paper setters, moderators and translators in strict isolation at secure locations to prevent any possibility of unauthorised access or communication before the examination. Enhanced monitoring systems and nationwide training programmes for examination personnel have also been rolled out ahead of the retest.
The re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21 for candidates affected by the cancellation of the earlier test. Meanwhile, the agency has repeatedly dismissed fresh social media claims of another paper leak, calling them false and warning of strict action against those spreading misinformation.
The heightened security measures are aimed at ensuring a fair, transparent and leak-proof examination process for lakhs of medical aspirants appearing in the re-test.
