NEW DELHI, Aug 18: The Education Ministry on Tuesday announced a series of measures to strengthen the National Testing Agency’s examination system, including a four tier mechanism for question paper scrutiny, a revamp of its expert panel and enhanced security at its offices.
The steps come amid heightened scrutiny of the agency following recent irregularities involving UGC-NET examinations and the earlier controversy surrounding the NEET-UG medical entrance test.
The decisions were reviewed at a meeting chaired by Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on Monday. The minister directed officials to ensure that all necessary security arrangements and infrastructure were put in place to facilitate the smooth and secure conduct of examinations.
NTA Director General Abhishek Singh subsequently briefed the ministry on the measures implemented by the agency, which conducts several major entrance and eligibility examinations across the country.
As part of the restructuring, the examination team has undergone a significant overhaul. The ministry said around 600 experts had been removed from the existing panel, while new specialists were being brought on board to strengthen the examination process.
The revised system will also introduce a four level checking mechanism for question papers. The additional layers of scrutiny are aimed at improving accuracy, confidentiality and reliability during the preparation and review of examination material.
The ministry further said that 20 to 25 officials would be inducted into the agency within the next two to three weeks. A broader recruitment and induction plan was also reviewed during the meeting to strengthen NTA’s administrative capacity.
Security arrangements at the agency’s offices are also set for a major upgrade. The NTA plans to shift its offices to new premises on a priority basis, with Central Industrial Security Force personnel deployed to reinforce security.
The measures are part of the government’s broader effort to restore confidence in the country’s examination system and strengthen the institutional framework responsible for conducting high stakes tests.
The ministry’s latest steps are expected to focus on preventing question-paper-related irregularities, improving internal oversight and ensuring greater security throughout the examination cycle.