Karnataka government plans to scrap NEET, proposes state-held medical entrance exam
- In Reports
- 11:35 AM, Jul 23, 2024
- Myind Staff
In a decisive move signaling growing discontent with the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET), the Karnataka Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has approved a resolution to abolish NEET for medical admissions in the state. The resolution, part of a trio of significant policy decisions, seeks to return the power of conducting medical entrance exams to the state government. On Monday, the Karnataka Cabinet approved the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024, which aims to restructure the civic administration of the capital city by dividing it into five zones.
This landmark decision, taken during a late-night Cabinet meeting on Monday, underscores Karnataka's intent to reclaim control over medical admissions. The move comes amid widespread controversy and criticism of NEET, which many argue disadvantages students from state education boards.
Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, a prominent critic of NEET, has been at the forefront of this campaign. He recently urged the central government to allow states the autonomy to conduct their own entrance examinations, tailored to their specific educational contexts. This push aligns with the Cabinet's latest resolution and is expected to intensify debates on the fairness and effectiveness of a centralized medical entrance system.
"The NEET exam has created numerous challenges for our students. It's time for Karnataka to take charge and ensure a more equitable and contextually appropriate assessment for medical aspirants," stated Shivakumar.
In addition to the NEET resolution, the Cabinet has also adopted resolutions opposing the 'One Nation, One Election' proposal and the delimitation of constituencies for the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies. These resolutions are expected to be tabled in the ongoing legislative session, possibly as early as Tuesday.
Image source: HT File
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