New Delhi, October 9 (Daily Kiran) : A parliamentary committee has made significant recommendations aimed at enhancing transparency in the National Testing Agency (NTA) examinations. Among these is a pivotal suggestion to transition the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG) to a computer-based format. This proposal aims to mitigate the risk of question paper leaks and restore student confidence.
The committee, led by Rajya Sabha member Mukul Wasnik, submitted its 382nd report to the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha on October 9. It emphasized the need for establishing government examination centers nationwide, ensuring at least one center in every district, and providing students with opportunities for practice exams.
The committee highlighted that the NTA conducts exams for approximately 12 million students each year. To meet this demand, it stressed the necessity for adequate resources, specialized staff, and accountability mechanisms. A recommendation was made to create a comprehensive and regularly updated question bank for major exams, including NEET-UG.
The report suggests that question papers should be prepared close to the examination date to minimize the chances of prior knowledge or leaks. Experts from prestigious institutions such as IITs, AIIMS, and IIMs should assist in developing and translating question banks, with their credibility and potential conflicts of interest thoroughly vetted beforehand.
Before transitioning NEET-UG to a computer-based format, the committee insisted on the establishment of sufficient government infrastructure. It proposed the creation of 1,000 secure government examination centers within a specified timeframe, including centers in smaller towns and rural areas. The NTA could provide financial support for setting up laboratory centers in schools and colleges, equipped with 100 to 200 computers for examination purposes. The report also clarified that the operation of examination centers should remain under the jurisdiction of central or state governments, as outsourcing to private entities could introduce security risks.
In regions lacking adequate computer and internet facilities, temporary measures should be implemented, such as sending question papers directly to examination centers for printing on-site. The committee also called for a transparent and independent system for normalizing scores from different question papers in a computer-based exam.
Addressing staffing shortages within the NTA, the report noted that only 23 of the 39 approved positions are filled, leaving about 41% vacant. It recommended hiring permanent staff and developing expertise in exam security, data analysis, digital management, and examination administration.
To enhance accountability, the committee suggested that the NTA maintain a public record of irregularities related to exams, including FIRs, investigations, and prosecutions connected to question paper leaks or other discrepancies. It also proposed creating a national list of restricted companies and individuals associated with exam-related services, ensuring that government examination bodies do not contract with them.
To alleviate student stress, the committee recommended allocating an additional 15 minutes for formalities such as signatures and checks during exams. It also proposed allowing candidates who arrive a few minutes late to enter the exam with a written declaration, although they should not receive extra time. Furthermore, to prevent disruptions from rallies or processions on exam days, the committee urged district administrations to ensure traffic and law enforcement measures are in place.
The report explored the possibility of a two-tier examination system for NEET-UG, comprising a preliminary exam for all medical courses followed by specialized main exams for individual courses. It also recommended aligning the number of successful candidates with the available seats, establishing regulatory frameworks for coaching institutions, and basing question papers on the prescribed school curriculum.
Additionally, the committee underscored the importance of mental health support for students, free counseling services, accessible exam centers for disabled candidates, and a grievance redressal mechanism. It called for the formation of a team of cybersecurity experts within the NTA, increased transparency in exam results, and compensation for students affected by exam cancellations due to administrative reasons.
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