NTA needs deep structural overhaul, not replacement: Ex-UGC chief

The National Testing Agency (NTA) must undergo "deep structural strengthening" to tackle recurring examination-security lapses, but wholesale replacement of the organization may not be the optimal solution, said Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, former Chairman of the University Grants Commission and head of the Review Committee for NEP 2020.

In remarks to news agencies, Kumar characterized the repeated instances of paper leaks as an "end-to-end examination-security challenge" that reflects the considerable scale and complexity of tests administered by the NTA. He emphasized that addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive approach rather than administrative overhaul.

The government has intensified efforts to fortify the NTA following the NEET-UG paper leak controversy, which sparked substantial student demonstrations and led to the resignation of a cabinet minister. Subsequent errors in the UGC-NET examination further highlighted systemic vulnerabilities. In response, the Centre has initiated several corrective measures, including the establishment of a high-level review committee headed by technology executive Nandan Nilekani.

Parliament recently passed legislation imposing stricter penalties for unfair practices in public examinations, reflecting the administration's commitment to enhancing examination integrity. These multifaceted interventions aim to restore confidence in the national testing framework while addressing structural deficiencies identified in recent months.