Karnataka Exploring Computer-Based Testing for CET over NEET UG Controversy

The Karnataka government’s contemplation of CBT for CET is part of a broader strategy to modernize the medical examination process. In response to the ongoing NEET UG controversy, the Karnataka government is exploring the shift from the traditional pen-and-paper format to a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) method for the Common Entrance Test (CET).

In response to the ongoing NEET UG controversy, the Karnataka government is exploring the shift from the traditional pen-and-paper format to a Computer-Based Testing (CBT) method for the Common Entrance Test (CET). The Higher Education Minister, MC Sudhakar, revealed this potential change during a session at the Karnataka Examination Authority office. He emphasized the need for uniformity in examination systems and acknowledged that many states have already transitioned to CBT.

Possible Shift to Computer-Based Testing for CET in Karnataka

The Karnataka government’s contemplation of CBT for CET is part of a broader strategy to modernize the examination process. Minister MC Sudhakar highlighted that preliminary discussions are underway, and the state is closely studying the CBT models implemented by Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra for CET. This potential shift is seen as a response to ensure the integrity and uniformity of examinations amid rising concerns about malpractices in traditional testing methods.

One of the significant considerations in adopting CBT for CET in Karnataka is the infrastructure required to support this transition. Minister Sudhakar pointed out that students in rural areas might face challenges due to limited access to computers. To address this, the Karnataka government is considering setting up cyber centers to ensure all students can participate in the examination. Additionally, the importance of sensitizing students to this new method is being recognized, with efforts already initiated at the Pre-University (PU) level.

Ensuring Examination Integrity Amid NEET UG Controversy

To curb malpractices, the Karnataka Examination Authority (KEA) plans to implement stringent monitoring mechanisms. The proposed system will utilize biometric verification and facial recognition to ensure the authenticity of candidates. A command control room will oversee examination centers, and any suspicious activity or copying attempts will be flagged by the system, thus enhancing the integrity of the examination process.

Also Read: NEET UG 2024 Hearing Adjourned till July 18 by the Supreme Court.

NEET UG 2024 Analysis: Addressing Controversies

Amid the discussions about CET, the analysis of NEET UG 2024 data provides critical insights into the examination's integrity. The analysis, conducted by IIT Madras, reveals that the marks distribution follows a typical bell-shaped curve, indicating no abnormality or mass malpractice. This distribution suggests a fair and unbiased examination, with most candidates scoring around the average mark.

City-Wise and Center-Wise Analysis of NEET UG 2024 Qualification

A detailed city-wise and center-wise analysis of NEET UG 2024 for the top 1.4 lakh ranks was conducted, covering the total number of seats across the country, approximately 1.1 lakhs. The analysis showed no evidence of mass malpractice or localized benefits leading to abnormal scores. The increase in marks, particularly in the range of 550 to 720, is attributed to a 25% reduction in the syllabus. High-scoring candidates are spread across multiple cities and centers, further indicating a low likelihood of malpractice.

NEET UG 2024: City-Wise Top Ranker Analysis

The analysis of NEET UG 2024 top rankers by city revealed interesting trends. Bengaluru, Karnataka, showed a significant increase in top rankers, with five candidates in the top 100, compared to just one in 2023. This increase suggests no mass malpractice but rather reflects the effectiveness of local preparation methods. Similarly, cities like Lucknow, Kota, and Namakkal also showed notable increases in top rankers.

Detailed City-Wise Spread

Bengaluru, Karnataka: Increased from 1 to 5 candidates in the top 100 ranks.
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Increased from 1 to 4 candidates.
Kota, Rajasthan: Increased from 0 to 3 candidates.
Namakkal, Tamil Nadu: Increased from 0 to 3 candidates.
Patna, Bihar: Minimal increase from 1 to 2 candidates, despite allegations of NEET UG question paper leaks.

NEET UG 2024: Center-Wise Ranker Analysis

The center-wise analysis further supports the findings of the city-wise analysis. In 2024, centers in cities like Bathinda, Sikar, and Surat showed the highest number of top rankers. Bathinda, for instance, had five students in the top 500 ranks. This distribution across various centers indicates no localized malpractice, with the maximum number of students from any center being 5 and 6 in 2024 and 2023, respectively.

Center-Wise Data

Bathinda, Punjab: 5 students in the top 500 ranks.
Sikar, Rajasthan: 4 students in the top 500 ranks.
Surat, Gujarat: 4 students in the top 500 ranks.

Also Read: NEET UG Counselling to Begin by July Third Week - Centre

NEET UG 2024 Marks Distribution Analysis

The NEET UG 2024 marks distribution shows a consistent increase in marks across different ranges. The number of candidates scoring between 700 to 720 marks increased significantly from 99 in 2022 to 2321 in 2024. This increase is primarily due to the 25% reduction in the syllabus, which made it easier for candidates to score higher marks. The high-scoring candidates are spread across multiple cities and centers, indicating a fair examination process.

Year-Wise Marks Obtained

700 to 720 Marks Range: Increased from 350 in 2023 to 2321 in 2024.
650 to 699 Marks Range: Increased from 6939 in 2023 to 27885 in 2024.
600 to 649 Marks Range: Increased from 22062 in 2023 to 51358 in 2024.

The Karnataka government’s consideration of adopting CBT for CET marks a significant step towards modernizing the examination process. The Karnataka government aims to ensure a fair and unbiased examination system by studying successful models from other states and addressing infrastructure challenges. The detailed analysis of NEET UG 2024 data reaffirms the integrity of the examination, showing no evidence of mass malpractice.