NEET UG 2026: Haryana deploys 175 centres, biometric checks for 65,300 aspirants

Key facts

• NEET UG 2026 exam date: May 3, 2026.
• Exam timings: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM; entry allowed only from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM.
• Haryana: 175 exam centres, 65,300 candidates.
• Meerut: 15 exam centres, including Meerut College and Sanatan Dharma Inter College.
• Biometric verification: one device per 48 candidates; security check counter per 100 candidates.
• Jammers activated from 1:45 PM; CCTV surveillance at all centres.
• Prohibited items: smartwatches, calculators, earphones, Bluetooth devices.
• Dial 112 service available for candidates needing transport to centres.

Strict security measures for NEET UG 2026 across Haryana and Meerut

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has finalized preparations for the NEET UG 2026 examination, scheduled for May 3, 2026. In Haryana, 65,300 candidates will appear across 175 centres, while Meerut district has set up 15 centres. Authorities have implemented stringent security protocols to ensure a fair and orderly conduct. Candidates must arrive between 11:00 AM and 1:30 PM; no entry will be permitted after the deadline. The exam itself runs from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Officials emphasized that latecomers will not be accommodated, regardless of circumstances.

Biometric verification and electronic surveillance at all centres

Every candidate will undergo biometric verification, with one device assigned per 48 test-takers. Separate check counters for male and female candidates have been established, with one security counter for every 100 candidates. CCTV cameras will monitor all centres, and jammers will be activated from 1:45 PM to prevent communication during the exam. Authorities will also monitor social media for rumours that could mislead candidates. The Dial 112 emergency service is available to transport candidates to their centres if needed.

Meerut's 15 exam centres and prohibited items list

In Meerut, the 15 designated centres include Meerut College, Sanatan Dharma Inter College, Raghunath Girls Inter College, KV Dogra Line, KV Sikh Line, KV Punjab Line, NAS Inter College, Ismail Mahila PG College, Khalsa Kanya Inter College, St. Joseph Inter College, Devnagari Inter College, Shaheed Mangal Pandey Mahila Degree College, and Rajkiya Inter College. All centres will enforce a ban on electronic devices such as smartwatches, calculators, earphones, and Bluetooth gadgets. Officials warned that any violation of the rules will invite strict action. The administration has deployed adequate police force at each centre to maintain law and order and prevent cheating.

65,300 candidates in Haryana; offline exam format

Haryana's 175 centres will host 65,300 aspirants for the offline (pen-and-paper) exam. The NTA has completed all necessary arrangements, including the distribution of question papers and answer sheets. The exam duration is three hours, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Biometric verification will be conducted in two phases: at entry and again inside the exam hall. The jammers will be switched on after the biometric process to avoid interference. This layered approach aims to eliminate impersonation and electronic cheating.

Background: NEET UG as gateway to medical colleges

NEET UG is the single entrance exam for admission to undergraduate medical and dental programmes across India, including government and private institutions. The exam is conducted by the NTA, which has faced scrutiny in previous years over paper leaks and irregularities. The 2026 edition incorporates enhanced security measures in response to past incidents. In Meerut, the district administration has issued clear directives to ensure a smooth process. Candidates have been advised to carry only essential items and to reach centres well before the 1:30 PM deadline.

Outlook: Zero-tolerance policy for malpractice

Officials have stated that any attempt at cheating or rule violation will result in cancellation of candidature and possible legal action. The combination of biometric checks, CCTV, jammers, and police deployment is designed to create a tamper-proof environment. Candidates are urged to cooperate with security personnel and to report any suspicious activity. The NTA has not announced any contingency plans for natural disasters or disruptions, but the Dial 112 service provides a safety net for transport issues.

Analysis: A high-stakes exam with renewed focus on integrity

The NEET UG 2026 measures reflect a broader push by Indian authorities to restore confidence in competitive exams after several high-profile scandals. The detailed protocols—from biometric counters to social media monitoring—indicate a systemic effort to close loopholes. For the 65,300 candidates in Haryana and thousands more across India, the exam represents a critical step toward medical careers. The success of these security arrangements will be closely watched by students, parents, and policymakers alike.

The bottom line

• NEET UG 2026 is on May 3, 2026, with entry only from 11:00 AM to 1:30 PM.
• Haryana: 175 centres, 65,300 candidates; Meerut: 15 centres.
• Biometric verification, CCTV, and jammers are deployed to prevent cheating.
• Electronic devices like smartwatches and calculators are banned.
• Dial 112 service available for candidate transport to centres.
• Strict penalties for rule violations, including cancellation of candidature.