The Indian Air Force (IAF) will provide logistical support for the NEET-UG 2026 re-examination scheduled on June 21. According to top sources, military aircraft will be used to transport question papers across the country under an extensive security arrangement designed to prevent any repeat of the irregularities that led to the cancellation of the earlier examination.

Sources said the IAF has been assigned the responsibility of transporting confidential question paper packets from 18 designated locations to examination centres and distribution hubs. The move is part of a special security plan aimed at ensuring the safe and timely delivery of examination materials.

As part of the operation, Mi-17 helicopters will also be deployed where required. Sources said these helicopters will help ensure the secure transportation of question papers, especially in areas where quick delivery may be necessary. Security agencies and armed forces have also been placed on standby and are prepared to provide any additional assistance required for the smooth conduct of the re-examination.

The deployment of IAF assets comes as authorities implement one of the strictest security arrangements ever seen for a national entrance examination. The government is taking extra precautions to ensure that every stage of the examination process remains secure.

Ahead of the June 21 re-test, question paper setters, moderators, translators and other key personnel involved in preparing the examination have been shifted to a secure undisclosed location. Officials said individuals involved in preparing the re-exam paper, including question setters, moderators, translators and other key personnel, have been shifted to a secure location where they will remain under supervision until the examination is over.

Several restrictions have been imposed at the facility. Those involved in preparing the paper are not allowed to carry mobile phones, laptops, smartwatches or any other personal electronic devices. Internet access has also been restricted. Entry and exit from the location are being closely monitored to prevent any possibility of unauthorised access to the question paper.

Authorities believe these measures will significantly reduce the risk of any leak before the examination. The experts will remain at the secure facility until the exam is conducted. Access to mobile phones, laptops, the internet and all forms of external communication has been heavily restricted to ensure complete confidentiality.

Sources said the lockdown of paper setters is only one part of a wider security strategy being implemented for the examination. The transportation of question papers by the IAF forms another major component of the plan. Confidential question paper packets will be moved from 18 locations across the country under strict security supervision. Mi-17 helicopters are expected to be used wherever required to maintain both speed and security.

Apart from transportation arrangements, security agencies and armed forces have been instructed to remain prepared for any additional logistical requirements. The authorities are working to ensure that there are no disruptions during the examination process and that all materials reach their destinations safely.

The Centre's heightened security measures follow the cancellation of the original NEET-UG 2026 examination after allegations of a question paper leak surfaced. The controversy raised concerns about the integrity of one of the country's most important entrance examinations and affected lakhs of students.

The June 21 re-examination is being viewed as a major trust-restoration exercise. Authorities are aiming to rebuild confidence among students, parents and educational institutions by ensuring a transparent and secure examination process. Special attention is being given to every stage, from question paper preparation and storage to transportation and distribution at examination centres.

With multiple layers of security in place and the support of the Indian Air Force, officials hope to conduct the re-examination without any security breach. The extensive arrangements reflect the government's effort to ensure that the examination remains fair, secure and tamper-proof for all candidates.