The Chief Minister said the initiative reflected the government’s recognition of the role parents play in supporting their children

| Photo Credit: ANI

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday (June 18, 2026) announced that the Delhi government will set up ‘Cooling Zones’ outside all 97 NEET re-examination centres in the Capital on June 21. The facilities will provide seating, drinking water, ORS, shikanji (lemonade) and first-aid for candidates’ parents and others accompanying them. Of the 97 examination centres, 69 are in government schools and 28 in Kendriya Vidyalayas. Ms. Gupta said district administrations have been directed to create shaded waiting areas around the centres so that parents and guardians could rest comfortably during the examination. “Every year, millions of families arrive at examination centres carrying dreams for their children‘s future. While candidates remain inside, parents often wait outside for hours. Their anxiety, discomfort and exposure to the heat frequently go unnoticed,“ she said. The Chief Minister said the initiative reflected the government’s recognition of the role parents play in supporting their children. “The Delhi government has decided to ensure that parents do not face inconvenience on the day of the examination,“ she said. Ms. Gupta expressed hope that the initiative would encourage other States to make similar arrangements and give greater attention to the convenience of parents during examinations. Published - June 19, 2026 12:55 am IST