The central government has informed the Supreme Court that transitioning the NEET-UG 2027 examination to a computer-based format is under active consideration. To improve exam integrity, the court has directed the Nandan Nilekani-led task force to submit a report on logistics and structural reforms within two weeks, focusing on permanent staffing and enhanced security measures.
The central government is exploring a major transition for the NEET-UG 2027 examination, potentially shifting the high-stakes entrance test to a computer-based format. This update was shared with the Supreme Court during a hearing where the government addressed concerns regarding the integrity of the examination process. Justices PS Narasimha and Alok Aradhe, presiding over the bench, emphasized the need for a long-term solution to prevent the systemic failures that impacted the 2026 exam cycle.
At the center of this transition is the High-Powered Task Force led by Nandan Nilekani. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the government, confirmed that the administration is working closely with the committee to evaluate the feasibility and logistics of moving toward digital testing. The court has directed the task force to file an affidavit within two weeks, which is expected to outline the timeline and implementation strategy for this digital migration. While the National Testing Agency (NTA) has previously expressed potential readiness for digital formats, the current focus is on aligning these plans with the final recommendations of the Nilekani-led task force.
Beyond the debate over the examination format, the judiciary is pushing for deep-rooted institutional reforms within the testing agency. A key requirement mandated by the court is the restructuring of the agency’s workforce. Currently, the bench has observed a heavy reliance on deputed officials, which it views as a hurdle to institutional memory and consistency. The court has directed that at least half of the staff should transition to permanent status, a move intended to stabilize operations and ensure accountability across future examination cycles.
Structural improvements have also been initiated to secure the examination process. The NTA has already relocated its confidential operations to a high-security facility at Minto Road. This facility is now under the protection of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), reflecting a shift toward tighter physical security protocols. Furthermore, the agency is actively recruiting specialists in cybersecurity, human resources, and research to bolster its capabilities. Leadership has also seen changes, with the appointment of a secretary-level Director-General, signaling an effort to professionalize the top management layer.
The court’s direct involvement highlights the ongoing pressure to restore public trust in the examination system. For the upcoming 2027 cycle, the most important monitorable for students and stakeholders will be the submission of the task force’s affidavit. This document is expected to provide specific details on the digital roadmap, the status of the permanent recruitment process, and concrete timelines for the infrastructure upgrades needed to support a nationwide computer-based test.