NIOS debarment from NEET: Students reach out to Prime Minister

Managaluru: A plea has been made in a letter written by three students of the National Institute of Open School (NIOS) to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar to change the eligibility criterion that bars students from open schools from appearing in the National Eligibility Cum Entrance Exam (NEET) for 2018-19.

The letter, the 3 students Devi Murli, Salome Daniel and Prateek wrote stated that they had been studying for NEET and the NIOS board exams for 2 years now. However, while filing an application for NEET entrance they found the eligibility chapter clearly state that Open School candidates are not eligible to appear for NEET (UG). “We have read the news that mentioned HRD minister saying ‘No’ to MCI order barring NIOS students. However, this is not reflected in the Eligibility criteria.”

Further, The New Indian Express quotes their letter stating, “You are aware that the NIOS is an autonomous board under School education and is on par with Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS). The curriculum is set by National Council of Educational Research & Training (NCERT). Along with the examination, they have to do the necessary practicals recommended by the board. In addition to this, unlike any other boards, each student has to submit Tutor-Marked assignments.”

Vijay Moras, Principal, CFAL Mangalore, observed that several Mangaluru NIOS students had succeeded in getting top medical colleges in the country, reports TNIE.

He is believed to have met PU Director, C Shikha in this regard who had expressed her inability in influencing such a high body as the MCI.