Don't impose NEET-like exam for veterinary courses, CM Vijay writes to PM Modi

CHENNAI: Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Friday (August 8) urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene and direct the Veterinary Council of India (VCI) to allow admissions to the Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry course based on Class 12 marks instead of adopting NEET, as directed by the apex body.

In a letter to the Prime Minister, Vijay expressed concern over the VCI's proposal to either conduct a Common Entrance Examination for veterinary admissions or use the NEET merit list for admissions from the current academic year.

The Chief Minister said veterinary education was closely linked to animal husbandry, livestock health, dairy development and the livelihoods of millions of rural households. He noted that Tamil Nadu had, for decades, admitted students to professional courses based on Class 12 marks, ensuring opportunities for students from rural areas, government schools and socially disadvantaged sections.

CM Vijay recalled that the State had abolished the Common Entrance Examination for professional courses in 2007-08 and had consistently opposed NEET, arguing that centralised entrance examinations created barriers for deserving students lacking access to coaching and financial resources.

Referring to controversies surrounding NEET, he pointed to recent irregularities in its conduct, including examination cancellations and the CBI probe into an alleged question paper leak.

He urged the Prime Minister to advise the VCI to review its decision and permit admissions to continue on the basis of Plus Two marks or any admission criteria determined by the respective State governments, saying this would uphold social justice, protect rural students and respect the federal framework.