Punjab NEET UG Reservation Criteria 2025: Complete Guide

The NEET UG exam serves as a gateway for medical and dental aspirants in India, and Punjab is no exception in conducting its own state-level counselling and reservation process. Understanding the reservation criteria for NEET UG 2025 in Punjab is crucial for candidates who want to secure a seat in medical colleges under the state quota. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the reservation system, categories, and essential information regarding the admission process in Punjab.

1. Reservation Categories for Punjab NEET UG 2025

Punjab has a specific reservation policy in place for candidates belonging to various categories. The state government allocates seats based on these categories, ensuring that students from socially and economically disadvantaged groups are given opportunities in medical education. Below is the detailed breakdown of the categories and their respective reservation percentages:

2. Eligibility for Reservation in Punjab NEET UG 2025

To be eligible for reservation under the Punjab state quota, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• Domicile Requirement: Candidates must be residents of Punjab and should possess a valid Punjab domicile certificate.
• Qualifying Exam: Candidates must have appeared for NEET UG 2025 and meet the minimum qualifying percentile set by the state authorities.
• Category Proof: Candidates applying for reserved seats must submit the necessary documents as proof of their category, such as caste certificates or disability certificates issued by competent authorities.

3. Detailed Breakdown of Reservation Categories

3.1. Scheduled Castes (SC) – 25% Reservation

The SC category includes candidates who belong to the Scheduled Caste communities as recognized by the Indian government. A candidate must present a valid SC certificate to avail of this reservation.

3.2. Backward Classes (BC) – 10% Reservation

This category includes candidates who belong to the backward class communities. The reserved seats for BC candidates are subject to the submission of a valid BC certificate from the concerned authority.

3.3. Backward Area and Border Area (BA/BO) – 2% Reservation

This reservation is available to candidates who belong to areas designated as backward or border areas in Punjab. Each of these areas receives a 1% reservation in the state quota.

3.4. Physically Handicapped (PH) – 3% Reservation

Candidates with disabilities are provided a 3% reservation. To avail of this, candidates must present a medical certificate stating their disability status issued by an authorized medical board.

3.5. Sports Persons – 1% Reservation

Candidates who have represented the state or country in sports are eligible for a 1% reservation in the state quota. They must provide valid certificates from the recognized sports authorities.

3.6. Children and Grandchildren of Terrorist Affected Persons – 1% Reservation

This category is reserved for children and grandchildren of individuals affected by terrorism. Documentation verifying this status must be provided to claim the reservation.

3.7. Children and Grandchildren of Sikh Riot Affected Persons – 1% Reservation

This category is for children and grandchildren of people affected by the 1984 Sikh riots. A valid certificate from the appropriate authority is required to apply for this reservation.

3.8. Wards of Defence Personnel – 1% Reservation

A 1% reservation is available for children of Defence personnel, including those who have served or are currently serving in the armed forces. A valid certificate from the Ministry of Defence or the concerned authority is mandatory.

3.9. Wards of Punjab Police Personnel – 1% Reservation

Candidates who are children of Punjab Police personnel are eligible for a 1% reservation. The candidate should provide the required certificates to claim this reservation.

3.10. Children and Grandchildren of Freedom Fighters – 1% Reservation

This reservation is for candidates who are children or grandchildren of freedom fighters. Applicants should submit proof of their family and the freedom fighters.

4. Document Verification and Proof

For all categories, the reservation will only be granted upon the submission of authentic certificates. The document verification process is an essential part of the counselling procedure. Candidates must ensure they have the following documents ready during verification:

• NEET UG 2025 Admit Card and Result
• Punjab Domicile Certificate
• Category Certificate (SC/BC/PH, etc.)
• Income Certificate (if applicable)
• Birth Certificate
• Medical Certificates (for PH candidates)
• Sports Certificate (for Sports Persons)
• Defence Personnel Certificate (if applicable)

5. Important Considerations

• Horizontal vs. Vertical Reservation: Punjab follows a horizontal reservation system, where reservation benefits are applied to specific seats but not across categories. For example, the total 25% SC reservation will be distributed across the total number of medical seats in the state.
• Counselling Process: During the counselling process, candidates will be allotted seats based on their NEET scores, preferences, and category. The reservation system will be considered while allocating seats during the counselling rounds.
• State Quota and All India Quota: It is important to note that the Punjab state quota will apply only to state-run medical colleges, while the All India Quota (AIQ) will apply to seats in institutions like AIIMS, where different reservation policies are followed.

Conclusion

The reservation system in Punjab for NEET UG 2025 is aimed at promoting equality and providing access to medical education for various disadvantaged communities. Candidates seeking admission in Punjab-based medical colleges must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation during the counselling process. Understanding the reservation criteria is critical for making an informed decision during the NEET UG 2025 admission cycle.