THE National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test–Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026 on Sunday. Around 28,000 registered candidates appeared for the examination at centres across 19 districts of Chhattisgarh. The exam was held in offline (pen-and-paper) mode in a single shift from 2 pm to 5 pm. NEET-UG is the sole entrance examination for admission to MBBS and BDS courses in government and private medical and dental institutions across the country. Elaborate security arrangements were made by district administrations in all 19 districts. District magistrates and public representatives also inspected examination centres to review arrangements. As per the reporting schedule issued by the NTA, candidates were required to reach their respective centres between 11 am and 1:30 pm. Entry was strictly prohibited after 1:30 pm. The admit cards were released on April 26, and candidates were required to carry a valid photo ID along with passport-size photographs. The question paper comprised 180 questions divided equally among four sections Physics, Chemistry, Zoology and Botany with 45 questions each. Each correct answer carried four marks, while one mark was deducted for every incorrect response. No marks were deducted for unanswered questions.

 

According to candidates, the overall difficulty level was comparable to previous years. Physics was widely considered the toughest section due to its length and conceptual nature. Chemistry was of moderate difficulty, while Zoology and Botany were relatively straightforward and scoring. “I found Physics lengthy, but Chemistry and Biology were manageable. I attempted all the questions,” said Mohammed Yusuf, a medical aspirant. Another candidate, Sheetal Pandey, said most questions were direct and based on NCERT. “With strong theoretical preparation, I could attempt most questions, though I could not complete Physics,” she said. Dr Rohit Sharma, a doctor and online tutor for NEET-UG and PG exams, said the results are expected later this month or in the first week of June. He added that Chhattisgarh is likely to see an increase in MBBS seats this year with the establishment of five new medical colleges and a possible expansion of seats in existing institutions following the removal of the 150-seat cap by the National Medical Commission.