882 Punjab Govt School students crack NEET-UG 2026, marking 100% rise in 2 years: Harjot � ...
Chandigarh, July 19, 2026: In a major boost to Punjab’s public education system, 882 students from government schools in the state have qualified the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET-UG) 2026. The results were declared following a nationwide re-examination conducted after the cancellation of the original paper due to a leak.
Key Achievements
- 882 government school students qualified NEET-UG 2026, marking a 100% rise since 2024 (437 qualifiers).
- 2025 saw 847 qualifiers, continuing an upward trend despite exam disruptions.
- Punjab emerged as India’s top-performing state in school education in the NITI Aayog Education Quality Report 2026.
Student Success Story
Prateek Kumar, a student of the School of Eminence, Sekhewal (Ludhiana), scored 594/720 in NEET-UG 2026. The son of a private school teacher (monthly income: Rs 16,000), Prateek prepared through free online classes and mock tests under the Punjab School Education Department’s PACE programme. He aspires to become an oncologist.
“Education is the only way to change our family’s destiny. The Punjab Government’s free coaching gave Prateek the wings,” said his father.
Government Initiatives
- Sikhya Kranti: A state-led education reform driving quality improvements.
- PACE Programme: Free online classes and mock tests for government school students.
- Structured mentorship and exam preparation support for competitive exams like NEET.
Statements
Punjab Education Minister S. Harjot Singh Bains: “Our students prove that quality education and hard work go hand in hand. This success reflects the sustained impact of Sikhya Kranti and our teachers’ dedication. Education is the most powerful tool to eradicate poverty and transform lives.”
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann: The government remains committed to nurturing talent and ensuring every child has access to world-class education.