India, Nov. 3 -- The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for Undergraduate (NEET-UG) may continue in the pen-and-paper test (PPT) format in 2027, with a full transition to computer-based testing (CBT) appearing "unlikely" before 2028, officials and people familiar with the developments said.

The development comes as the Centre has extended the tenure of the Nandan Nilekani-led examination reform task force until January 27, 2027.

The extension comes amid reservations from southern states, particularly Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala, over infrastructure gaps, transparency, state representation in the National Testing Agency (NTA), and the impact of online examinations on rural candidates. States have also flagged concerns over the w...