Jagat Prakash Nadda Reviews Preparedness for NEET UG Counselling 2026

 Jagat Prakash Nadda yesterday reviewed the preparedness for the forthcoming NEET UG Counselling 2026, reaffirming the Government's commitment to ensuring a transparent, merit-based, technology-enabled and student-friendly admission process for undergraduate medical courses across the country. The review assessed the preparedness for counselling of All India Quota (AIQ) and other seats under the purview of the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).

During the review, the Minister assessed the preparedness of the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC), Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and other stakeholders involved in the counselling process. He reviewed the counselling schedule, IT infrastructure, cybersecurity preparedness, grievance redressal mechanisms, candidate facilitation measures and coordination with participating institutions.

Shri Nadda emphasized that the counselling process must be conducted in a transparent, fair and merit-based manner while ensuring a seamless experience for students. He directed officials to maintain robust technical support, ensure prompt grievance redressal and facilitate the smooth functioning of the counselling portal throughout the admission process. He directed the officials to ensure that every proactive measure is taken to address candidates' concerns.

The Minister was informed that NEET UG Counselling 2026 introduces several major technology-enabled and student-centric reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, improving accessibility and simplifying the admission process.

One of the key reforms is the introduction of a one-time physical reporting framework, significantly reducing the need for repeated visits by candidates. Following seat allotment, candidates will be able to exercise their willingness online by selecting either the Freeze or Float option.

Candidates opting for the Freeze option will physically report to their allotted institute within the prescribed schedule to complete admission formalities, including verification of original documents and payment of the admission fee.