The Ministry of Education has directed the National Testing Agency (NTA) to undertake wide-ranging reforms in its functioning following recent issues related to the conduct of examinations.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan held a review meeting with the Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, NTA Director General and other senior officials. The meeting focused on measures being taken to strengthen the examination system and improve the agency’s overall functioning.
Over 50 NTA Staff Removed
As part of the restructuring process, more than 50 NTA staff members have been removed, according to the Ministry of Education.
The agency has also invited applications for 10 professional leadership positions to strengthen its technical, financial and examination-related capabilities. These include Chief Technology Officer, Chief Finance Officer, Chief Information Security Officer, General Manager (Test Security) and General Manager (R&D and Psychometrics). The process of appointing professionals to these positions is currently underway.
Private Sector Experts to Strengthen NTA
The ministry said specialists from the private sector are being brought in for key areas such as cybersecurity, psychometrics and question-paper design.
The move is aimed at bringing specialised expertise into the agency and strengthening the security, efficiency and reliability of examination processes.
Confidential Operations to Undergo Complete Overhaul
Pradhan directed officials to ensure strict adherence to established examination protocols and ordered a comprehensive restructuring of the Confidential Operations (CONOPS) architecture.
The overhaul will cover critical security measures, including secluded rooms, air-gapped computer systems and protocols for depositing electronic devices. The minister instructed officials to implement the measures on a “war footing” to strengthen the security of examination-related operations.
NTA Asked to Audit Entire Examination System
The NTA has also been directed to carry out a comprehensive audit of all examination processes. The agency will have to submit a report outlining the corrective measures implemented following the review. The latest directives are part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the NTA’s examination infrastructure, tighten security protocols and prevent lapses in the conduct and management of examinations.