Hello Srijita,

Changing your category from General to General Economically Weaker Section (Gen-EWS) during the NEET state counseling process depends on several factors, including eligibility criteria and the specific policies of the state counseling authority. Here’s a general outline of the process and considerations:

1. Eligibility for Gen-EWS Category

• Income Criteria : To qualify for the Gen-EWS category, you must meet specific income criteria set by the Government of India. Typically, your family’s annual income should be less than Rs. 8 lakhs.
• Other Criteria : There might be other criteria related to land ownership, residential status, etc. Ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements for the Gen-EWS category.

2. Documentation Required

• EWS Certificate : You need to provide a valid EWS certificate issued by a competent authority. This certificate should clearly state that you are eligible for the EWS category based on income and other criteria.
• Proof of Income : In some cases, you might also need to submit additional documents proving your family’s income.

3. During the Counseling Process

• State Counseling Authority : Each state has its own counseling authority and set of rules. Contact the state counseling authority or check their official website for specific guidelines regarding category changes.
• Application Procedure : Typically, during the counseling registration, you will be required to select your category. If you initially selected General and now wish to switch to Gen-EWS, you will need to provide the necessary documentation for verification.
• Verification : Your EWS certificate and other relevant documents will be verified by the counseling authority. If the documents are valid and you meet the eligibility criteria, the change might be permitted.

4. Timeliness

• Before Deadline : It’s crucial to make this change before the counseling process reaches the stages where documents are finalized or seats are allocated. The timing of your request can impact the feasibility of making the change.

5. Impact on Counseling

• Seat Allocation : Changing your category can affect your chances of securing a seat, as the availability of seats in the Gen-EWS category might differ from the General category.
• Choice Filling : If you change your category, you might need to fill out your choices again based on the Gen-EWS quota.

6. Steps to Take

1. Contact Counseling Authorities : Reach out to the state NEET counseling authorities or visit their official website to get detailed information about the process for changing categories.
2. Submit Required Documents : Ensure that you have the EWS certificate and any other required documents ready for submission.
3. Follow Guidelines : Adhere to the guidelines provided by the counseling authority to ensure that your request for changing the category is processed smoothly.

In summary, while it is possible to change your category from General to Gen-EWS during the NEET state counseling process, it involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and providing valid documentation. It’s essential to consult with the state counseling authority to understand their specific procedures and deadlines for such changes.