Indian Air Force roped in to transport NEET UG re-exam papers after leak row: Dharmendra Pradhan
The government will deploy the Indian Air Force to assist in transporting question papers for the NEET UG re-examination scheduled on June 21, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said on Thursday.
The move comes as the Centre steps up security measures following the cancellation of the original NEET UG 2026 exam over allegations of a paper leak.
'Whole-of-government approach'
Speaking to a media channel, Pradhan said the government is adopting a “whole-of-government approach” involving several ministries and departments to ensure the examination is conducted smoothly and securely.
“In previous examinations, there was a major role for the postal department, the Home Ministry, and state governments. We have taken their help earlier and will continue with a whole-of-government approach to ensure smooth, free, and fair examinations,” he said.
The minister added that the Indian Air Force would now supplement the role traditionally played by the postal department in moving confidential examination material.
Air Force to ensure timely delivery
According to Pradhan, weather conditions during June and the need for tighter logistics management prompted the decision to involve the Air Force.
“The work earlier done by the postal department will now also be supported by the Indian Air Force so that question papers reach their destinations on time, considering all factors. The government is serious and fully prepared to conduct free and fair examinations,” he said.
High-level meeting held
Earlier in the day, a high-level meeting was held involving Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, and Communications Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia.
The ministers discussed measures aimed at preventing paper leaks and strengthening examination security systems.
The proposal to involve the Indian Air Force in question paper logistics was also reviewed during the meeting.
NEET UG 2026 cancelled over leak allegations
The development comes after the National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled NEET UG 2026 on May 12.
The exam, originally conducted on May 3, was scrapped after investigations reportedly found that several questions resembling those in the actual paper had circulated before the test.
The re-examination is now scheduled to be held on June 21 under heightened security arrangements.
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