JEE Mains candidates to undergo frisking, biometric attendance again after using toilet

Ahead of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE-Main), the National Testing Agency (NTA) has implemented more rigorous protocols for test-takers. In a bid to ensure exam integrity and fairness, frisking and biometric attendance have been made mandatory, even following restroom breaks, as per media reports. Apart from stringent measures and frisking at the time of entry to the exam hall, individuals, including candidates, officials, observers, and staff, will again undergo frisking and biometric attendance after using toilet. The NTA is evaluating private centers' readiness and training observers to identify irregularities during exams.

The JEE (Main) has witnessed an unprecedented surge in applications, surpassing 12.3 lakh registrations this year, marking the first time it has crossed the 10 lakh threshold. Anticipating further growth, the NTA is bracing for an influx of new applicants in the April 2024 sessions.

With a massive 1.2 crore registrations in 2023, NTA officials emphasize continuous enhancement and proactive measures. Subodh Kumar Singh, Director General of NTA, highlighted their focus on advance planning, allowing ample time to fortify security measures.

The JEE (Main) 2024 session 1 is slated from January 24 to February 1, 2024, followed by the second session in April 2024. These computer-based exams will run in two daily sessions.

Expanding test locations by 12 this year, the NTA will host exams in over 300 cities nationwide. Newly included sites like Bastar in Chhattisgarh and Tura in Meghalaya aim to facilitate candidates from remote regions, offering test accessibility closer to their residences.