Patna: The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2026 began across the country on Sunday with strict security arrangements and heavy monitoring at examination centres. In Bihar, authorities implemented special precautions to ensure the examination was conducted peacefully and fairly. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the medical entrance examination, said this year’s arrangements were stronger than ever before, with the use of artificial intelligence, CCTV cameras and biometric verification systems at centres across the state. Officials warned that any attempt at cheating, impersonation or spreading misinformation would invite strict action.
More than 142 examination centres were set up across 35 districts of Bihar for this year’s examination. Around 1.60 lakh students are expected to appear for the test in the state. Patna recorded the highest number of candidates, with nearly 85,000 students taking the exam at 96 centres across the city. NEET UG is one of India’s largest entrance examinations and serves as the gateway for admission into MBBS and other undergraduate medical courses. This year’s examination included 180 objective questions carrying a total of 720 marks, with sections covering Physics, Chemistry and Biology.
To prevent malpractice, the NTA introduced real-time monitoring systems at all centres. CCTV cameras were installed inside and outside examination halls, while AI-based surveillance systems were used to detect suspicious activity immediately. Officials said all centres were being monitored directly from a central control room. Multi-layered security checks were also carried out before students entered examination halls. Authorities described the arrangements as part of efforts to maintain transparency and restore confidence in competitive examinations after recent concerns over paper leaks and cheating incidents in various exams across the country.
Biometric verification was made compulsory for every candidate appearing in the examination. Students were required to verify their identity through fingerprints and other biometric methods in addition to showing their admit card and photo identity proof. However, officials clarified that candidates facing technical issues during biometric verification would still be allowed to sit for the exam after filling out a declaration form. Examination authorities appealed to students to remain patient and cooperate with officials during the verification process.
The NTA also issued detailed guidelines regarding documents and dress code. Candidates were instructed to carry their admit card, Aadhaar card or another valid photo identity proof, a recent passport-size photograph and a self-declaration form. Students arriving without the required documents were denied entry. Authorities advised candidates to wear light and simple clothing and avoid carrying prohibited items such as mobile phones, smartwatches, Bluetooth devices, bags, books and notes. Strict checking was carried out at the entry gates of examination centres throughout the day.
Officials also warned students about the importance of following instructions related to OMR sheets and examination timing. Candidates were told to arrive at their centres well before the reporting time, as late entry would not be permitted under any circumstances. Once the examination began, students were not allowed to leave the hall before the end of the test. Authorities asked candidates to fill out their OMR sheets carefully and submit all required copies properly after the exam to avoid any issues with evaluation.
The NTA further appealed to parents and students not to believe rumours or fake news circulating on social media during the examination period. The agency urged everyone to depend only on official updates and announcements. Officials said strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to spread false information or create confusion regarding the examination. Students were advised to remain calm, follow all guidelines carefully and focus fully on the examination process.
