Chennai: Psychologists and activists have urged Tamil Nadu govt to offer free counselling sessions to NEET UG 2026 aspirants from the state for the next few weeks, in the wake of cancellation of the exam by the National Testing Agency.Urging the state to make use of tele-counselling through existing helplines such as 104 and tele MANAS, the Tamil Nadu Psychology Association said such a measure would help students manage the stress. “Students will be under severe mental duress. A lot of self-doubt and anger would be prevalent. It is the duty of the state to ensure that they are addressed properly and not misdirected,” said K Balamurugan, association president. He further said several students would be coming back from breaks and vacations and have to mentally switch to preparation mode. “This is not as easy as it sounds. A few words of support and encouragement would help those in distress,” he added.A section of activists suggested holding counselling sessions at schools. “Based on need, the state can invite students to their respective schools on a particular day and arrange counselling,” said S Arumainathan, president, TN Students Parents’ Welfare Association. TNN
