NEW DELHI: To restore public trust in India’s examination system after the NEET paper leak controversy, the Centre is considering including the Defence Forces in the safekeeping and transportation of question papers for major national-level examinations, including NEET UG. While the move has sparked political debate, several countries such as China, South Korea and Egypt have already adopted strict military or state-backed security measures for high-stakes examinations to prevent leaks and ensure smooth conduct.
The proposal was discussed during a high-level meeting held at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s residence following the nationwide outrage over the recent NEET controversy. According to sources, the nearly 40-minute meeting was attended by Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, National Testing Agency (NTA) Director General Pradeep Singh Kharola, along with senior officials from the Education Ministry, Defence Ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
Under the proposed plan, the Army may use secure vehicles to transport question papers from printing centres to designated airbases, after which the Indian Air Force could deliver them to examination centres across the country ahead of the June 21 NEET UG re-test. The discussions are part of a broader effort to strengthen exam security, improve logistics and prevent future paper leaks through stricter coordination between central agencies and security forces.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said the involvement of the military is being made to ensure safety, especially during the monsoon season, and preventing leaks as part of wider security measures involving paramilitary forces and state agencies while the CBI investigation continues across multiple states.
🚨 HUGE! Modi Govt is seriously considering a major reform:
Handing over Question papers of all important national exams (including NEET) to the Defence Forces for SAFEKEEPING🤯
A high-level meeting was held at Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s residence to make NEET & other… pic.twitter.com/OhHQy5H5kh
— The Analyzer (News Updates🗞️) (@Indian_Analyzer) May 28, 2026
One of the key proposals that was discussed is the possible involvement of the Indian Air Force in transporting question papers securely and within strict timelines. Authorities believe weak security during transportation was one of the main reasons behind earlier paper leaks. Thus, having safer logistics is a top priority for future exams.
The Centre is considering a strong multi-layered security system where defence resources and expertise could help keep major examinations safe and fair. Officials also discussed backup plans, secure communication systems and better coordination between different agencies.
The Prime Minister’s Office is closely monitoring preparations related to the re-test of NEET UG, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi being regularly briefed on developments and the proposed security framework.
Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has also announced broader reforms in the examination system. As part of the proposed changes, NEET is expected to transition to a computer-based format from 2027. This will minimise the risks associated with physical question papers and improve transparency.
Why is the inclusion of armed forces in high stake exams not extraordinary?
Many are questioning why the Center is exploring the involvement of armed forces in exams. To get the facts clear, India is not the first country to adopt such practice or measures for high stake examinations. Several nations like China, South Korea, etc., have previously deployed military or state security infrastructure to protect the integrity of the exam, prevent leaks and ensure smooth conduct.
For instance, in China, Gaokao examination papers are reportedly printed inside prisons under round the clock surveillance, then they are escorted by armed police. Even flight operations are restricted during the exam period to avoid or minimize disruptions.
Likewise, in South Korea, military and civilian flights are temporarily halted, and fire drills are suspended during the nationwide CSAT exam.
In Egypt, Thanaweya Amma exam papers have been airlifted using military aircraft to remote areas. The armed forces secure the highways, trains and exam centers.
Social media users of X have pointed multiple examples in support of this plan by the Modi government. If implemented, using the Defence Forces could be one of the biggest changes in India’s exam security system, and many believe it may help rebuild trust among students and parents after repeated paper leak cases. No official announcement has been made yet by the Defence Ministry, but the discussions show the government’s plan to make exams more secure using stricter and modern technology-based systems.
