A parliamentary panel met on Thursday to review the operations of regulatory bodies under the Health Ministry regarding the NEET-UG exam run by the National Testing Agency. NTA representatives and specialists presented information to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare, chaired by Samajwadi Party MP Ram Gopal Yadav.
The panel also addressed the cost and availability of medical services in both public and private settings. Members discussed the NEET-UG exam, proposed measures to strengthen the NTA, and requested a formal written report from relevant officials.
Topics included the structure, role, and effectiveness of regulatory bodies under the Health Ministry, as well as NEET exams under the NMC Act of 2019. Experts and NTA staff shared detailed input. A presentation on a unified national entrance test and related technology was delivered by a former institute leader.
Oral evidence was provided by the secretary of the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority, leaders from the Quality Council of India and the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals, and the Drugs Controller General of India on healthcare access and pricing.
The NEET controversy has already been reviewed by two other parliamentary panels that called in senior officials from the Health and Higher Education ministries, the NTA, the National Medical Commission, and the CBI, which is investigating alleged leaks. This health panel marks the third such review.
Panels have previously questioned the Higher Education Secretary, the NTA Director General, and the NMC chairperson about steps to secure the exam process. The original May 3 test was canceled amid leak claims and rescheduled for June 21.
Overall, the committee assessed the NEET-UG matter alongside broader regulatory functions in health, received input from officials and specialists, and requested a written submission.
