NBE changes NEET PG 2024 exam pattern last minute, Doctors see red

New Delhi: With the last-minute changes to the NEET PG 2024 exam pattern, the doctors are concerned over the National Board of Examination (NBE) decision. 

Announcing modifications in the exam patterns in all MCQ-based examinations, such as NEET-PG, NEET-MDS, NEET-SS, FMGE, DNB-PDCET, GPAT, DPEE, FDST, and FET, the NBE recently introduced mandatory time-bound sections. However, doctors under the Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) have expressed concern over these last-minute revisions in the NEET-PG 2024 exam pattern opining that such significant changes require adequate time for adaptation and preparation, which the current timeline does not afford.

Medical Dialogues recently reported that through a notice dated 04.05.2024, NBE had announced that it introduced time-bound sections as a measure to enhance the security and sanctity of the exams in light of emerging threats during the examination process. Releasing details of the mandatory timed sections in MCQ-based examinations, NBE mentioned that the question papers in the examinations mentioned above including NEET PG would be divided into multiple time-bound sections.

"For example, in NEET-PG 2024, if there are five time-bound sections (A, B, C, D & E) in the question paper, each section will have 40 questions and 42 minutes of time allotted. Candidates will be restricted from proceeding to the next section until they complete the allotted time for the previous section. Additionally, candidates will not be allowed to review the questions or modify their responses for a section after the completion of its allotted time. The questions for the next section will start automatically after the completion of the allotted time for the previous section," NBE mentioned in the notice.

The natboard further informed that the candidates would be given the option to mark any question, whether attempted or not, for review. This means that the candidates can go through these marked questions in a section again before the allotted time for that section ends.  As per the NBE notice, the questions marked for review will be evaluated according to the marking scheme as mentioned in the Information Bulletin of the respective examination and the actual number of time-restricted sections in an examination may vary based on the total number of questions in the question paper and operational feasibility in creating such sections.

However, expressing displeasure with the last-minute changes in the NEET PG 2024 exam pattern, FAIMA recently wrote to the NBE Executive Director. While the association acknowledged the importance of maintaining the security and sanctity of examinations and also appreciated the measures implemented to address the emerging threats, it also expressed concerns regarding the recent decision to introduce mandatory time-bound sections in NEET PG examinations.

"As you are aware, NEET PG aspirants already face Immense pressure and time constraints during the exam period. The sudden Introduction of mandatory time-bound sections adds an additional layer of stress and uncertainty, affecting the performance and well-being of the aspirants," FAIMA mentioned in the letter.

"We believe that such significant changes require adequate time for adaptation and preparation, which the current timeline does not afford. Therefore, we respectfully request reconsideration of the decision to implement mandatory time-bound sections In the upcoming NEET PG examinations. Instead, we propose that these changes be implemented gradually, allowing aspirants sufficient time to adapt and prepare effectively. We trust that you will give due consideration to our concerns and take necessary steps to address them. Your prompt action in this matter is highly appreciated and will contribute to the welfare and success of NEET PG aspirants across the country," it further added.

Meanwhile, sharing the NBE notice on X (formerly Twitter), the National Chairman of FAIMA, Dr. Rohan Krishnan also urged the authorities to cancel these changes. He wrote in an X post, "We are always against any kind of changes which are last minute. @NbeIndia should refrain from treating young aspirants who are graduates doctors like lab rats. @FAIMA_INDIA_ stands against this last minute modifications in exam/exam patterns. Requesting @NbeIndia to cancel this."

Commenting on the matter, Dr. Rohan Krishnan told Medical Dialogues, "It is a very last-minute step. The examinees are already very stressed and we are always very particular about this because this is an exam which has 40,000 to 60,000 seats and more than 3-4 lakh doctors who are appearing for this exam. This exam happens only once a year, so it is a very important day and it is going to happen pan-India. So, obviously, it is a very important examination."

"For any examination, the pattern should be declared before 6 months and after that, there should not be any changes. Now, the exam is going to happen in June itself and at present these changes are only going to create a lot of panic among the students and it is going to create more stress in the already stressful state of the NEET PG aspirants," he further added.

Also Read: NEET PG 2024 exam pattern revised! NBE introduces time-bound sections in all its computer-based tests- NEET SS, NEET MDS, FMGE and more