Politics · India Bureau
Parliamentary panel flags critical staffing crisis at National Test Agency
A parliamentary committee has highlighted severe manpower shortages at the National Test Agency, with nearly 41 per cent of permanent positions lying vacant. The report also raises concerns about extended delays in filling the Director General's post.
LSN India ·
The National Test Agency faces significant operational challenges due to chronic understaffing, according to a parliamentary panel report tabled in recent proceedings. The examination body, responsible for conducting crucial entrance tests across India, currently has 16 of its 39 permanent positions unfilled, representing a vacancy rate of approximately 41 per cent.
The report notes that the Director General's post, a critical leadership position, remained under additional charge for nearly two years, compounding concerns about institutional governance and decision-making capacity. This prolonged gap has raised questions about the NTA's ability to effectively manage large-scale testing operations and implement necessary reforms.
In response to the staffing challenges, the parliamentary panel has recommended the development of a new question bank system for the NTA. The proposal seeks to modernize examination procedures and potentially reduce the operational burden on existing staff through technological solutions.
The findings underscore growing pressure on India's premier testing body to strengthen its institutional framework. Officials are expected to address the recommendations and present an action plan for recruitment and system modernization in coming months.