The controversy surrounding the NEET 2024 results has prompted the National Testing Agency (NTA) to justify the unusually high scores, particularly the scores of 718 and 719 out of 720. To understand this issue, it’s crucial to examine the marking scheme of the NEET UG 2024 exam and the circumstances that led to these scores.
The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test, Undergraduate (NEET-UG), administered by the NTA, is a critical examination for admission to medical, dental, and AYUSH courses in both public and private institutions. The results released on June 4 sparked significant attention due to an unprecedented number of candidates achieving near-perfect scores.
This year, an extraordinary 67 candidates secured the top spot with a perfect score of 720/720, creating a stir among examinees and educators. The main contention, however, revolved around candidates scoring 718 or 719 marks. Critics argued that such scores seemed implausible within the exam’s framework, fueling further speculation about the integrity of the results.
The controversy intensified when at least two petitions were filed in separate High Courts, challenging the NEET UG results. Earlier, on June 1, a plea was submitted to the Supreme Court, demanding a re-evaluation of the examination due to alleged question paper leaks.
Understanding the 718 and 719 Confusion in NEET Results
The NTA clarified the scoring irregularities on Saturday, explaining the rationale behind awarding scores of 718 and 719 to certain candidates. According to the NTA, compensatory marks were allocated based on the recommendations of a committee of experts convened to address grievances related to inadequate time allocation during the exam. This committee assessed the candidates’ answering efficiency and time losses, subsequently determining the appropriate compensation.
The NTA also highlighted that the number of candidates appearing for the NEET UG 2024 exam increased by nearly 300,000 compared to the previous year, leading to a natural rise in high scores. Moreover, the NTA stated that the 2024 NEET was “comparatively easier” than previous years, contributing to the higher marks.
Marking Scheme of NEET UG 2024
The NEET UG exam consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) across four subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Zoology, and Botany. Each subject comprises 50 questions, with a maximum of 45 questions considered for evaluation. Candidates must answer 180 questions within 3 hours and 20 minutes.
- Correct answers are awarded four marks (+4).
- Incorrect answers incur a deduction of one mark (-1).
- Unanswered questions receive no marks (0).
- If multiple options are correct, candidates marking any of the correct options receive four marks (+4).
- If all options are correct, all attempts receive four marks (+4).
The confusion surrounding the scores of 718 and 719 marks stems from the application of compensatory marks. The NTA’s explanation indicates that some candidates received additional marks due to specific issues encountered during the exam, such as time constraints or ambiguous questions. This adjustment was made to ensure fairness and accuracy in the evaluation process.
Conclusion
The NEET 2024 results controversy underscores the complexities involved in large-scale examinations and the importance of transparency and fairness in the evaluation process. While the NTA’s justification for the compensatory marks and the resulting high scores addresses some concerns, the ongoing legal challenges and student grievances highlight the need for continued scrutiny and improvement in the administration of such critical exams.
