INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 5th AUG 2026

Summary of Important News Items Editorials-422

INDIAN EXPRESS DATED 5th AUG 2026.

(for reading Indian Express News items from 1 to 421 please visit –

web.prernaforias.com)

1. NEET-UG May Shift to Two-Stage, Computer-Based Examination

The Centre informed the Supreme Court that it is considering a major redesign of NEET-UG, including migration from the present pen-and-paper system to a computer-based test and possibly adopting a two-stage model similar to JEE Main and Advanced. The proposal comes amid judicial scrutiny and nationwide concern over examination paper leaks. NEET is distinct because more than 22 lakh candidates appear, many from rural areas and a majority are women, making equity and digital access crucial. The government said the final architecture would depend on recommendations of the Nandan Nilekani-led high-powered task force and consultation with the Health Ministry and National Medical Commission. The logic is that a multi-stage digital examination can reduce paper-handling vulnerabilities and filter candidates more efficiently. However, inadequate computer infrastructure may disadvantage rural students. The gist is that examination reform must balance security, scalability, accessibility and fairness, rather than treating digitisation alone as a cure for malpractice.

2. Gen Z Is a Quarter of India but Barely Visible in Legislatures