NEET Re-Exam Gets Unprecedented Security: Inside The Massive IAF Logistics Operation | Exclusive

Published 15 June 2026 · education

NEET Re-Exam Gets Unprecedented Security: Inside The Massive IAF Logistics Operation | Exclusive Reported By, Last Updated: June 15, 2026, 07:20 IST C-130J and AN-32

NEET Re-Exam Gets Unprecedented Security: Inside The Massive IAF Logistics Operation | Exclusive Reported By, Last Updated: June 15, 2026, 07:20 IST C-130J and AN-32 aircraft, along with Mi-17 and ALH helicopters, are likely to be used to move papers nationwide. Rapid Read The NEET re-examination is scheduled to be held on June 21, with the government and authorities working in sync to ensure the exam is conducted in a flawless manner | File image The Indian Air Force (IAF) is preparing to deploy transport aircraft and helicopters for the nationwide movement of confidential question papers and other examination material for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled for June 21, defence sources told CNN-News18. The operation, being planned as one of the country’s largest secure examination logistics exercises, will involve transporting question papers from around 18 distribution nodes to more than 50 destinations across India. According to defence sources, the IAF is likely to use C-130J Super Hercules and AN-32 transport aircraft for fixed-wing operations. Mi-17 helicopters and Advanced Light Helicopters are expected to be deployed for deliveries to selected locations, particularly those where air connectivity or terrain makes conventional transport difficult.

Airstrips and helipads across the country have already been identified for the operation, while the final transport and deployment plan is being worked out ahead of the June 21 re-examination. Multi-Leg Air And Road Network The IAF operation will form part of a larger high-security logistics framework covering hundreds of cities through a combination of air and road transport. Under the current plan, confidential examination material will first be moved from the designated distribution nodes to more than 50 locations using military aircraft and helicopters. It will then be transported to examination centres through a closely monitored road network. The use of different aircraft will allow planners to tailor the operation according to the distance, terrain and infrastructure available at each destination. While transport aircraft will handle bulk movement between major nodes, helicopters are expected to be used for selected locations requiring faster or more specialised access. Security and confidentiality will remain central to the exercise, given the sensitive nature of the examination material and the scale of the re-examination. Defence sources said final planning for the transportation operation was underway. Cabinet Secretary Reviews NTA Preparedness The preparations come amid a series of high-level reviews by the Centre to ensure the re-examination is conducted securely and smoothly.