In response to a Right to Information (RTI) query submitted by the All India Student's Union (AISU), it has been disclosed that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is currently deliberating over the request to postpone the NEET MDS 2024 examination to July. The revelation underscores the ongoing process regarding the rescheduling request.

The NEET MDS (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master in Dental Surgery), overseen by the National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS), is originally scheduled for March 18th, 2024.

AISU took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to announce the update, stating, "On 08.02.2024, we filed an RTI to seek information about the NEET MDS exam postponement. Today, we received a response stating that our representations are 'Under Process' in the Ministry." — Official_AISU (@Official_AISU)

Previously, AISU had addressed letters to both the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health, highlighting various critical issues necessitating urgent attention. Chief among these concerns is the feasibility of conducting the NEET MDS exam in March, particularly amidst concurrent counseling processes with NEET PG and the anticipated completion of internships required for NEET PG admissions, likely around August or September 2024.

In their communication, AISU noted the alignment of NEET MDS with the delayed NEET PG exam in December 2020, ensuring fairness for students applying to both examinations. Additionally, AISU expressed apprehension regarding the extended period of inactivity for dental students between March and the conclusion of their internships, which could span 6-7 months, risking academic disruption and time wastage.

AISU also highlighted the discrepancy in notification periods, emphasizing that NEET PG candidates were informed of their exam postponement six months in advance, whereas NEET MDS candidates received only two months' notice. The initial NEET MDS exam date of February 9 was officially postponed on January 20, with the new date set for March 18. This delay in announcing the NEET MDS dates significantly impacted aspirants' preparation and mental well-being, as per the AISU letter.

In their appeal, AISU urged the relevant authorities to reconsider the NEET MDS exam schedule and proposed aligning it with NEET PG, preferably in July. Such a change, AISU argued, would address raised concerns and promote fairness and consistency for both NEET PG and MDS candidates.