New Delhi: In a significant overhaul of the examination format, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has introduced a new sectional time-bound pattern for the NEET PG 2024 entrance exam, which is pivotal for admission to postgraduate medical courses. Scheduled for June 23, 2024, the exam will now feature several distinct sections, each with a strict time limit, compelling candidates to adapt to a more disciplined approach to their test-taking strategy.
The revised structure mandates that the exam, to be conducted exclusively in an online mode, will consist of multiple sections—presumably five (A, B, C, D, E)—with each section allocated a duration of 40-42 minutes. Aspirants are required to complete the questions within the allotted time for each section before progressing to the subsequent one. Notably, once the time for a section elapses, candidates will not have the opportunity to revisit or alter their responses.
This change has sparked controversy and dissent within the medical community. The United Doctors Front, led by its president Dr. Lakshya Mittal, has voiced strong opposition, arguing that the abrupt alteration in the exam pattern could detrimentally impact the preparation of students, given the proximity of the exam date.
Despite the pushback, the schedule for the NEET PG exam remains unchanged, with the results anticipated to be announced by July 15, 2024. Following the results, the counseling process is slated to commence on August 5 and conclude by October 15. The academic session is expected to kick off on September 16, with the deadline for joining the session set for October 21.
The NMC’s decision to revamp the exam pattern aims to enhance the security and integrity of the examination process. However, it has also raised concerns about the preparedness of students to adapt to the new format on such short notice. The medical fraternity awaits further developments as the date of the examination approaches.
