In 2017, the Indian government launched the National Testing Agency (NTA) with the aim of conducting fair, transparent, and standardized examinations. This initiative was introduced under the federal education ministry to address issues like exam paper leaks, administrative errors, and cheating scandals that plagued the system for years. The NTA was tasked with overseeing some of the country’s most competitive exams, including those for medical and engineering colleges, university admissions, and eligibility tests for teaching and research positions.
Despite these efforts, the NTA is now confronting its own crisis of confidence. Earlier this year, a significant medical entrance exam had to be retaken by over two million students due to a paper leak, sparking weeks of protests led by young people. This situation culminated in the resignation of the federal education minister. In response, the government set up a high-level task force led by tech entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani to propose reforms and restore trust in the examination system.
Challenges and Reforms
For many in India, the formation of yet another committee to tackle exam issues feels like history repeating itself. A similar panel was constituted in 2024 following irregularities in a medical entrance exam, but only a little more than half of its over 100 recommended reforms have reportedly been fully implemented. The cycle of exam failures, student protests, committee appointments, and proposed reforms seems unending.
Experts suggest that the problems extend beyond paper leaks. Concerns have been raised about the NTA’s accountability, capacity, and the centralization of exams. BJ Rao, who was part of the 2024 panel and currently heads SGT University near Delhi, advocates for a shift towards computer-based exams to minimize paper leaks and increase efficiency. Rao emphasizes the need for standardized state-controlled online centers to replace ad hoc exam centers.
However, Rao also points out that technology alone cannot solve the problem. The NTA’s reliance on contract staff, with only 24 permanent employees out of 221, affects its functionality. He stresses the importance of having personnel experienced in academia and assessments to ensure better management and oversight.
Rethinking Exam Design
Some experts argue that the recurring crises reveal flaws not only in exam administration but also in their design. Keshav Aggarwal from the Educators Federation suggests restructuring exams like the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate) or NEET-UG, whose paper leak led to this year’s protests. He proposes a multi-session exam model similar to the engineering entrance exams, reducing the risks associated with a single high-stakes test day.
Yamini Aiyar, a senior visiting fellow at Brown University, highlights the need for a system where students can take important entrance exams multiple times a year, a practice common in some Western countries. This approach would provide students with alternative opportunities if an exam is canceled or if they do not perform well, thus reducing the risk of losing an entire academic year.
Impact on Students
For millions of Indian students, the stakes are high. Many invest years and significant financial resources in preparing for these exams. The recent paper leak left students like 17-year-old Pari frustrated and disillusioned after having to retake the NEET. Similarly, Mansi Bansal faced cancellation of her UGC-NET exam, affecting her plans for a teaching career.
These experiences have led to calls from student activists and opposition politicians to disband the NTA. However, educationists believe that dismantling the agency is not the solution. M Jagadesh Kumar, former chairman of India’s universities regulator, argues that a single national testing body offers unified standards and procedures, and creating multiple agencies could lead to inconsistencies and increased costs.
Rao concurs that while the NTA has successfully conducted several exams without leaks, a statutory institution staffed with specialists is necessary for a secure examination system. Yet, the broader debate suggests that the issue extends beyond the NTA. Aiyar points out that the centralized testing system may not be equipped to handle the fierce competition for limited educational opportunities, and reforms must address the systemic reliance on high-stakes tests.
