Key Takeaways

  • NTA will introduce a four-tier scrutiny system for examination papers to improve accuracy and strengthen quality checks.
  • Around 600 experts have been removed from the examination team, with new specialists already being inducted.
  • NTA offices will shift to new premises, with CISF personnel expected to strengthen security arrangements.

Quick Facts

  • 600 experts removed from panels
  • Four-tier paper checking system
  • 20–25 officials to join
  • CISF security planned for offices

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is undertaking a major overhaul of its examination system, with the Education Ministry announcing a series of measures aimed at strengthening question-paper scrutiny, examination security and the agency’s operational capacity. The changes come after recent concerns over errors and security lapses in major examinations conducted by the testing body.

Four-Tier Scrutiny For Question Papers

A key change is the introduction of a four-tier question-paper checking system. Under the revamped process, papers will undergo multiple levels of scrutiny before an examination is conducted. The additional checks are intended to reduce the possibility of errors and improve the quality and reliability of question papers used in national-level examinations.

The move is particularly significant for examinations conducted at a large scale, where question papers may involve multiple subjects, languages and stages of preparation. The additional layers of review are expected to provide stronger oversight before papers are finalised.

600 Experts Removed From Examination Team

As part of the restructuring, the NTA has removed around 600 experts from its existing examination team and started onboarding new specialists. The ministry said the examination team is being revamped as part of efforts to strengthen the agency’s examination-related operations.

The agency is also expected to induct 20 to 25 additional officials over the next two to three weeks. The recruitment and restructuring exercise is intended to strengthen the organisation’s professional and administrative capacity.

The NTA has also advertised professional leadership positions, including roles related to technology, finance, information security, test security, research and development and psychometrics.

CISF Security Planned At New Offices

Security arrangements are another major component of the overhaul. The NTA plans to shift its offices to new premises on a priority basis, with Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) teams expected to provide security at the new facilities.

The proposed relocation is aimed at creating a more secure environment for sensitive examination-related operations. Strengthening physical security is particularly important for activities involving confidential examination material.

Reform Follows Examination Controversies

The latest measures follow concerns surrounding the conduct and security of high-stakes examinations. Recent issues linked to UGC-NET question papers, along with the earlier NEET-UG paper leak controversy, have increased scrutiny of the NTA and raised questions about the safeguards used to protect examination processes.

The Education Ministry has consequently been reviewing the functioning of the agency and directing it to strengthen security and supporting infrastructure. The latest review was chaired by Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi, following which the NTA briefed the ministry on the measures already undertaken.