New Delhi, Sep 13: Braving the Novel Coronavirus threat, more than 15.97 lakh candidates appeared on Sunday for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), conducted on 3,843 exam centres across the country.
Despite opposition from a section of students, the twice-deferred medical college entrance exam was held under the shadow of COVID-19, from 1400 hrs to 1700 hrs today.
‘NTA informed me that around 85-90% students appeared in #NEET exam today. I sincerely thank all Chief Ministers and @DG_NTA for proper arrangements made to facilitate student participation. #NEET participation reflects the tenacity and grit of young #AtmaNirbharBharat,’ Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ posted on micro-blogging site Twitter.
On Saturday, Dr Pokhriyal had wished students luck and asked them to follow the safety norms during exams.
Candidates appearing for the exam had to observe social distancing norms, wear a mask and gloves, while writing the test.
On Friday, the Health ministry issued safety guidelines, asking the NTA to arrange a special isolation room for candidates found symptomatic/affected with COVID-19.
A section of students had opposed holding the exam during the pandemic, while Chief Ministers of Opposition-led state governments had approached the Supreme Court, seeking deferment of the exam.
Formerly, the All India Pre-Medical Test, NEET (Undergraduate) is an entrance examination in India for students, who wish to study undergraduate medical courses and dental courses in government or private medical and dental colleges in India.
