Authorities have placed all experts involved in preparing the NEET-UG 2026 retest question paper under strict isolation at a secure and undisclosed location as part of enhanced security measures. The restrictions will remain in force until the examination concludes on June 21. The move comes after the controversy surrounding the earlier NEET-UG examination and is part of a broader effort to strengthen the examination process for more than 22 lakh candidates.Security Measures Begin With Question Paper PreparationOfficials associated with the examination process said paper setters, moderators, translators and other personnel working on confidential stages of question paper preparation are staying at a secured facility under supervision.Mobile phones, laptops and other personal communication devices have been restricted. Internet access and outside communication have also been tightly controlled. Authorities are monitoring all entry and exit points, and only authorised personnel are allowed access to the facility. Smartwatches and other digital devices have also been prohibited.Lockdown Is First Layer of Multi-Level Security PlanThe isolation of personnel involved in question paper preparation forms the first stage of a larger security framework introduced by the Ministry of Education and the National Testing Agency (NTA) for the June 21 retest.The examination will be conducted in pen-and-paper mode from 2 pm to 5.15 pm. It is scheduled to take place across 551 cities in India and 14 cities outside the country.Entire Examination Process Under Additional OversightOfficials said every stage of the examination process is now being monitored more closely. This includes question paper preparation, translation, moderation, printing, packaging, storage, transportation and distribution.The process has been divided into separate sections so that no individual or group has complete access to the entire chain of operations. The aim is to reduce risks and strengthen confidentiality at every stage.Focus on Secure Transportation of Question PapersAuthorities have also increased attention on the transportation of examination material. According to officials, the government has explored the use of Indian Air Force aircraft for the secure movement of question papers across different parts of the country.Social Media Monitoring UnderwayIn addition to physical security measures, authorities are keeping watch on digital platforms. Officials said they are conducting "round-the-clock monitoring of social media platforms, messaging applications and online forums to identify fake question papers, misinformation campaigns and suspicious activity".Education Minister Directs Officials to Address VulnerabilitiesSources said Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has instructed officials to ensure that weaknesses identified during the previous examination cycle are fully addressed before the retest is conducted.The strengthened security arrangements are part of efforts to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of the NEET-UG 2026 retest on June 21.