Mangaluru, May 3, 2026: NEET-UG examination was conducted smoothly across Dakshina Kannada district on Sunday under heightened security arrangements and stricter entry procedures compared to last year.
Out of 8,587 registered candidates, 8,323 appeared for the examination held at 18 centres across the district. Most of the centres were located in government and aided colleges.



Despite harsh weather conditions, candidates along with parents and guardians began arriving at the centres from late morning. Students travelled from various parts of the district, including Moodubidire, Belthangady and Puttur, besides neighbouring Kerala.
Authorities and support staff managed crowds outside the centres effectively, ensuring that the examination commenced on time without any disruption.
Traffic congestion was reported in some parts of Mangaluru city and its outskirts due to the examination and several major functions held on Sunday.
Candidates said they were prepared for the revised examination pattern and the expected increase in difficulty level this year. A student who was revising until the last minute said that last year’s tough question paper had prompted many aspirants to prepare more seriously this time.
Officials said the examination process remained orderly throughout the district, recording strong attendance and enhanced security measures.