New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has resigned from the Union Cabinet, ending weeks of speculation following the NEET-UG 2026 controversy and the nationwide debate over examination reforms. In a detailed farewell letter addressed to students, Pradhan said the interests of young people had always guided his decisions and reiterated his commitment to building a transparent and inclusive education system.
The former minister, who said he had spent more than four decades working for students, teachers and educational reforms, described quality education as the foundation of a strong nation. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the Education Ministry and said serving the country under his leadership had been an honour.
Referring to the NEET-UG paper leak reported earlier this year, Pradhan said the government acted without delay after irregularities came to light. According to him, the investigation was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the examination was cancelled, and a fresh test was conducted to safeguard the interests of students. He also highlighted the decision to shift NEET to a computer-based format from next year as part of broader efforts to strengthen the examination process.
Pradhan stated that conducting the re-examination for more than 20 lakh candidates was a national priority. He credited the coordinated efforts of the Centre, state governments, district administrations, parents and students for ensuring that the revised examination was completed successfully on June 21.
The former minister noted that the declaration of the revised NEET-UG results on July 16 had restored confidence in the admission process and enabled deserving candidates, including those from underprivileged backgrounds, to compete fairly. At the same time, he expressed disappointment over what he described as attempts by certain individuals to mislead students and create obstacles during the reform process.
In his message, Pradhan emphasised that India’s youth represent the country’s greatest strength and said he remained determined to ensure that no talented student would suffer because of examination-related corruption or organised malpractice. He added that he had accepted responsibility from the very beginning of the crisis and never distanced himself from the situation.
The outgoing minister also appealed for calm amid the ongoing protests across the country. He urged students to remain focused on their education and careers, while cautioning against forces that might seek to exploit the unrest for political or disruptive purposes. He revealed that he had submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister recommending measures to protect students from prolonged legal uncertainty and ensure that their academic future remains secure.
Concluding his letter, Pradhan thanked Cabinet colleagues, ministry officials and everyone associated with his tenure. He reaffirmed his commitment to public service, saying he would continue working for the aspirations of India’s youth and contribute to nation-building in every possible way.
