Hello,

NEXT (National Exit Test) is proposed to be conducted after 3 years from the day of passing of NMC bill. Since NMC bill was passed last year, the first NEXT exam is probably going to be conducted from 2022. The first batch to appear for it will be 2K17 batch.

So no, you wouldn't be giving NEXT in 2021 even if you take a drop year. You would still be appearing for NEET-PG.