NEW DELHI, Jul 29: Union Health Minister J P Nadda on Wednesday conducted a comprehensive review of preparations for the upcoming NEET-UG 2026 counselling process, directing officials to ensure a transparent, merit driven and student friendly admission system. The review focused on strengthening technical infrastructure, grievance redressal and seamless implementation of counselling for All India Quota (AIQ) and other seats managed by the Medical Counselling Committee (MCC).
Chairing the high-level meeting, Nadda emphasised that the counselling process should remain fair and efficient while addressing candidates’ concerns without delay. He instructed officials to maintain uninterrupted functioning of the online counselling portal, reinforce technical support systems and ensure quick resolution of student grievances throughout the admission cycle.
The minister also assessed the overall readiness of the counselling framework, including the schedule, cybersecurity arrangements, digital infrastructure, institutional coordination and mechanisms designed to improve the overall experience for aspiring medical students.
Officials informed the minister that this year’s counselling introduces a series of technology-driven initiatives aimed at making admissions more transparent and convenient. Among the most significant changes is the introduction of a one-time physical reporting system, which substantially reduces repeated travel for candidates during multiple counselling rounds.
Under the revised framework, students allotted seats can either choose to “freeze” their admission or “float” for a better option in subsequent rounds. Candidates selecting the freeze option will report to their allotted institution only once to complete admission formalities, document verification and fee payment.
Those opting for the float choice can complete document verification and other admission procedures online while remaining eligible for seat upgrades in later rounds. They will not be required to visit institutions physically until the conclusion of the third counselling round, making the process more convenient for students from distant regions.
The ministry stated that the upgraded admission system ensures a single physical verification of original documents and one-time fee payment, reducing unnecessary travel while simplifying administrative procedures for both students and institutions.
Another major reform introduced this year is the online resignation facility. Eligible candidates wishing to surrender allotted seats can now submit their resignation through the MCC counselling portal without visiting their allotted college in person, unless specifically required under notified guidelines.
Officials also highlighted several measures designed to improve operational transparency. Candidate information received from the National Testing Agency (NTA) will be pre populated on the portal, while online document verification, validation of the seat matrix by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and institutional verification will further strengthen the admission process.
Special attention has been given to improving accessibility for Persons with Benchmark Disabilities (PwBD). The number of designated disability assessment centres has been increased from 16 to 61 across the country, allowing candidates easier access to assessment facilities.
In line with revised National Medical Commission guidelines issued on July 27, disability certificates will now be issued as “Eligibility Certificates,” reflecting their role in determining a candidate’s suitability for admission through functional assessment. The updated guidelines also introduce a uniform, evidence-based evaluation system while balancing equal opportunity, professional standards and patient safety.
Candidates dissatisfied with their initial assessment will now have access to an Appellate Disability Assessment Board, providing an additional layer of review and enhancing fairness in the evaluation process.
The counselling process also brings complete digitisation of admissions under the Non-Resident Indian (NRI) category. Registration, document submission and verification will now be carried out entirely through the online counselling portal, replacing the earlier email-based procedure.
Applicants seeking admission under the NRI quota must upload all supporting documents online. Verification will be undertaken by designated authorities, ensuring greater transparency and timely processing. The ministry reiterated that candidates must submit documentary proof establishing that the sponsor is a legally recognised guardian, in accordance with Supreme Court directions and the Guardians and Wards Act, 1890.
Cybersecurity preparedness has also been significantly strengthened in collaboration with the National Informatics Centre (NIC). Officials informed the minister that multiple safeguards have been incorporated to protect the counselling platform and ensure secure handling of candidate data throughout the admission process.
Training programmes have already been conducted for disability assessment boards, document verification officers and institutional nodal officers to ensure consistent implementation of counselling guidelines across participating medical colleges.
To improve candidate support, the ministry has established a dedicated 24 hour toll free helpline, along with bilingual guidance material, frequently asked questions, instructional videos and an email based grievance redressal system to assist students at every stage of counselling.
The National Testing Agency had announced the NEET-UG 2026 results on July 16, and counselling for MBBS, BDS and B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing seats under the All India Quota is expected to begin shortly.
The Health Ministry has advised candidates to carefully read the counselling guidelines, information bulletin and admission rules before exercising options related to seat acceptance, upgrades, resignation or disability assessment. Students have also been urged to regularly monitor the official MCC portal for updates and counselling schedules as the admission process begins.