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The recent National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) paper leak in India has sparked widespread concern about the integrity of entrance examinations. To address this issue, a seven-member committee headed by former ISRO chief Dr. K Radhakrishnan has been formed to suggest reforms aimed at preventing future leaks and strengthening the examination process. The committee's recommendations focus on leveraging technology, enhancing the National Testing Agency (NTA) capacity, and strengthening security protocols.
The committee proposes conducting entrance exams online wherever feasible, recognizing the inherent security advantages of digital platforms. For exams requiring paper-based format, the committee recommends a hybrid model where questions are transmitted digitally and then printed onto paper, ensuring greater control over the distribution and access to the exam material. To address the concerns of medical aspirants, the committee also suggests conducting a multi-stage exam for this group, potentially mitigating the risk of a single paper leak affecting a large number of candidates.
Recognizing the importance of a robust and reliable examination body, the committee emphasizes the need for greater government control over the NTA. Specifically, they advocate for increasing the number of examination centers operated directly by the NTA, reducing reliance on outsourced service providers. This move aims to enhance control over the examination environment and potentially reduce vulnerabilities to leaks. Furthermore, the committee recommends employing more permanent staff at the NTA, reducing the dependence on contractual personnel. This step aims to ensure greater consistency and expertise within the organization, contributing to better exam management and security.
Beyond the specific measures for NEET, the committee also outlines long-term strategies to secure all entrance examinations conducted by the Centre. These include strengthening data security protocols, improving the overall examination process, and reviewing the NTA's structure and operations. The committee's report, submitted recently to the Education Ministry, emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to address the issue of exam leaks, ensuring fairness and integrity in the examination process.
The committee's recommendations reflect a growing concern regarding the potential for exam leaks to undermine the fairness and validity of entrance examinations. The proposed reforms aim to address these concerns by leveraging technology, strengthening the NTA's capabilities, and ensuring greater government oversight. While the Education Minister has rejected calls for a reexamination, the committee's recommendations are likely to be considered seriously as India seeks to build a robust and reliable system for conducting entrance examinations for higher educational institutions.
Source: Seven-member Committee's Key Recommendations To Stop Paper Leaks In India