Shillong, June 20: The Meghalaya Pradesh Youth Congress (MPYC) has expressed concern over what it described as inadequate support arrangements for students from the state scheduled to appear for the NEET re-examination on June 21, stating that many candidates continue to face logistical and financial difficulties at short notice.
According to the organisation, a large number of students, particularly those from rural and remote areas, are struggling to arrange transportation, accommodation and other essential requirements needed to reach their designated examination centres. It stated that the limited time available before the re-examination has placed additional pressure on students and their families ahead of an examination crucial for admission to medical courses.
As per available figures, nearly 3,200 students from Meghalaya appeared for the examination. Of these, around 700 to 750 candidates are from the Garo Hills region, while approximately 2,450 to 2,500 belong to Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills. The designated centres for the re-examination are located in Shillong and Tura, requiring many candidates to undertake long journeys within a short period.
MPYC stated that several students remain uncertain about travel arrangements, accommodation and related expenses, adding that the situation has caused additional stress for aspirants, especially those from economically weaker sections.
Questioning the response of the Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) Government, the youth body alleged that despite repeated emphasis on youth empowerment and educational development, sufficient assistance mechanisms for students appearing in the re-examination have not been established.
The organisation further observed that while the state government has highlighted initiatives relating to the expansion of medical education infrastructure, including developments associated with Tura Medical College and Shillong Medical College, similar urgency has not been demonstrated in addressing the immediate concerns of students seeking admission through NEET.
MPYC noted that NEET remains the principal gateway to medical education in India and argued that supporting aspirants during critical stages of the examination process is essential for building the future healthcare workforce of the state.
The organisation maintained that educational access and opportunity are central to broader social and economic development and said the challenges faced by aspiring medical students reflect wider concerns regarding access to higher education for students from remote and underserved regions.
Reiterating that the issue extends beyond political considerations, MPYC stated that the matter concerns the future of students and their ability to pursue medical education and professional opportunities. The organisation also expressed solidarity with NEET aspirants and their families and called for greater attention and timely intervention to address their concerns.
