Over 18,000 Students Appear for NEET-UG 2026 Retest Across Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad Amid Tight Security

The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026 re-examination was conducted smoothly across Noida, Greater Noida and Ghaziabad on Sunday, with more than 18,000 medical aspirants appearing for the high-stakes entrance examination under extensive security arrangements.

The re-examination, organised by the National Testing Agency (NTA), follows the cancellation of the original NEET-UG exam due to allegations of a question paper leak. The retest is a crucial step in restoring confidence in India's medical entrance examination system and ensuring a fair opportunity for lakhs of aspiring doctors.

According to examination authorities, Gautam Budh Nagar district recorded an attendance rate of over 88 per cent. Of the 10,823 candidates registered across 23 examination centres, 9,540 students appeared for the test. In neighbouring Ghaziabad, 8,743 of the 9,666 registered candidates attended the examination at 22 centres, resulting in an attendance rate of approximately 90.4 per cent.

To ensure the secure conduct of the examination, more than 1,000 police personnel were deployed across examination venues and major traffic points. Authorities established help desks near metro stations, bus stands and transit hubs to assist students and parents travelling to centres.

Security measures included CCTV surveillance, frisking of candidates, regulated entry and exit procedures, parking management and continuous monitoring of traffic movement around examination venues. Senior police officials supervised arrangements throughout the day to ensure a smooth and transparent examination process.

The examination was conducted from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm, while candidates with benchmark disabilities were provided additional time in accordance with prescribed guidelines.

Many students expressed relief after finally being able to appear for the examination following weeks of uncertainty. Candidates said the prolonged delay caused anxiety and disrupted preparation schedules, but they remained hopeful that the re-examination would conclude the controversy surrounding the test.

Education experts noted that maintaining transparency, security and student welfare is critical for safeguarding the credibility of national-level entrance examinations.