What Is The SC/ST Reservation Policy in NEET Counselling?

NEET counselling process allocates medical college seats to candidates depending on their NEET scores and category. The SC/ST reservation policy ensures that a certain percentage of seats are allocated for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates. This aims to provide equal opportunity in medical education for these historically disadvantaged communities.

In NEET 2024, 15% of seats are allotted for SC candidates and 7.5% for ST candidates.  To be eligible for this benefit, you must belong to the government-recognized SC/ST category and have valid documents for verification.

The reservation policy differs between All India Quota (AIQ) seats (15% of total seats) and state quota seats (85% of total seats). While the national government establishes reservation policies for AIQ seats, individual states might have slight variations for their state quota seats.

SC/ST Reservation Policy in NEET Counselling

Percentage of seats reserved for SC/ST

• In NEET counselling, typically 15% of seats in government medical colleges are reserved for SC students and 7.5% for ST candidates. These percentages may differ slightly per state owing to local demographics and policy. Furthermore, a similar reservation percentage is frequently applied at private medical colleges that receive central or state government financing.

Eligibility for SC and ST Reservation

• Candidates seeking SC/ST reservation in NEET counselling must belong to the respective communities recognized by the government of India. They must meet specified qualifying criteria for education and domicile as determined by the state or central authority conducting the counselling process.

Documents Required for SC/ST Verification

To claim SC/ST reservation benefits during NEET counselling, candidates must produce the following documents:

• A caste certificate issued by a competent authority (e.g., District Magistrate or Sub-Divisional Officer)
• Domicile certificate is proof of residence in the state or region seeking for reservations.
• Any additional document specified by the counseling authorities to validate eligibility for reservation benefits.

All India Quota vs. State Quota

All India Quota against State Quota

All India Quota (AIQ): These seats in the NEET counselling are designated for candidates from all throughout India, regardless of their domicile state. They are usually filled through a centralized counselling procedure managed by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

State Quota: Seats in NEET counselling are reserved for candidates who live in the respective states or union territories. The percentage of seats reserved under state quotas varies significantly by state, based on local policies and demographics.

Reservation Policy for All-India Quota Seats

SC/ST Reservation: The All-India Quota (AIQ) in government medical colleges reserves 15% of seats for SC candidates and 7.5% for ST candidates. This quota % is based on national directives to guarantee that historically disadvantaged communities are represented and given opportunities across India.

Reservation Policy for State Quota Seats (May Vary)

SC/ST Reservation: The reservation policy for SC/ST candidates under state quota seats may differ significantly between states. Typically, it reflects the AIQ reservation percentages, but state governments can change it to meet local demographic and social justice needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the benefit of SC/ST reservation in NEET counselling?

A: The SC/ST reservation ensures a specific percentage of medical college seats are reserved for students belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. This aims to increase their representation in the medical field and bridge the gap in educational opportunities.

Q: How do I avail SC/ST reservation during NEET counselling?

A: To avail of SC/ST reservation benefits in NEET counselling, you must belong to a recognized SC or ST caste, possess a valid certificate, and select the reservation category during online registration.

Q: What if I belong to SC/ST but don't meet the qualifying NEET score?

A: The reservation policy applies after the qualifying NEET score is met. However, the cut-off score for admission under SC/ST reservation is generally lower compared to the general category.

Q: Are there any documents required for SC/ST verification?

A: Yes, you will need a valid Caste Certificate or Tribe Certificate issued by the competent authority. The certificate should be in the prescribed format.

Q: Does the SC/ST reservation policy apply to both All India Quota and State Quota seats?

A: Yes, the reservation policy applies to both AIQ and State Quota seats. However, the specific reservation percentages might differ slightly for state quota seats as individual states have some autonomy in this regard.