Single-shift mandate leads to deferment; TCS cites logistical constraints
New Delhi: The Supreme Court has granted approval to the National Board of Examinations (NBE) to conduct the NEET PG 2025 on August 3, 2025, following the board’s request for a postponement to ensure a single-shift examination in compliance with the apex court’s earlier directive.
The decision came after a bench comprising Justices Prashant Kumar Mishra and Augustine George Masih heard NBE’s application. The bench noted that the postponement request was made in good faith and allowed the revised schedule, clearly stating that no further extension would be entertained.
Court Questions Delay, But Grants Relief
During the hearing, the Supreme Court grilled the NBE on the two-month delay in conducting the exam. Justice Mishra queried, “You want time till August 3? Why so much time?” while Justice Masih pointed out that little had been done since the May 30 directive.
In response, the NBE’s counsel explained that transitioning to a single-shift exam required doubling the number of centres from the originally planned 450 to accommodate over 2.5 lakh candidates. The board emphasized the time-consuming nature of rebooking centres, informing candidates, managing logistics, and arranging additional security.
TCS Technological Limitation Cited
NBE’s technology partner Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) submitted that August 3 was the earliest feasible date for conducting the test in a single shift, given the expanded requirements. The counsel mentioned the need for over 1,000 test centres, with infrastructure to host at least 2.7 lakh candidates, along with extensive logistical and security support.
New Application Window, Fresh Choices
With the change in exam format, the NBE will reopen the application window, allowing candidates to reselect their preferred test cities. Fresh test centre allocations will follow, with admit cards to be issued at least four days prior to the examination.
Additional Manpower and Infrastructure Demands
The NBE highlighted the need for extensive manpower—invigilators, security personnel, network administrators—and multiple mock drills to ensure smooth execution. The preparation involves system audits, load testing, power backups, and robust anti-cheating surveillance mechanisms.
Background: From June 15 to August 3
Originally scheduled for June 15, NEET PG 2025 was postponed after the Supreme Court directed that the exam must be conducted in a single shift to ensure fairness. The court had previously noted that two-shift exams lead to arbitrariness and do not provide a level playing field.
Medical aspirants had been demanding clarity from NBE, especially amidst widespread speculation on social media. With today’s decision, the uncertainty is resolved, and candidates now have a clear date: August 3, 2025.
