Amid Covid, Lakhs Of Aspiring Medical Students Take NEET

The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) - for admission to medical courses across the country - is being held today. States have announced special measures, including easing of restrictions and transportation, to help students reach exam centres. The conduct of the NEET amid the Covid pandemic was challenged by some students and opposition-ruled states, who argued that holding these exams at this time would endanger the lives of students. Last month the Supreme Court was petitioned to defer both NEET and the JEE (for admission to IITs) but the court said the exams could be held with strict restrictions on contact and social distancing. The JEE has already been held and results have been declared. On Wednesday the court declined to hear any further petitions on deferring NEET. Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal tweeted best wishes to all students this morning, urging them to adhere to coronavirus protocols.