The engineering entrance exam JEE-Mains, which was scheduled for April 27-30, has been rescheduled due to a surge in coronavirus cases. Union Education Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ declared the rescheduling on Sunday, stating that student safety is his top priority right now.

“Given the current #covid19 situation, I have advised @DG_NTA to postpone the JEE (Main) – 2021 April Session. I would like to reiterate that the safety of our students & their academic career are @EduMinOfIndia’s and my prime concerns right now,” Nishank tweeted

The National Testing Agency (NTA) released an official order stating that “considering the current condition of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the safety and well-being of candidates and examination functionaries, it has been agreed to postpone the JEE-(Main) April session.”

According to the decree, updated dates will be published earlier, at least 15 days before the inspection.

The NTA is holding the IIT-JEE exams in four sessions, the first two of which have already ended. The first session took place from February 23 to 26, and the second from March 16 to 18.

The organisation told the students to keep checking the website for updates. It also urged them to use this opportunity to continue studying for the test. It also mentioned that practise tests could be taken via the NTA Abhyas App.

This announcement follows the cancellation or postponement of many state and national board tests. Class 12 exams have been delayed, but Class 10 board exams have been cancelled. The ICSE has also delayed the Class 10 and 12 examinations.