Prime Minister Narendra Modi established a six-member task force to reform India's examination system. The panel aims to create a more transparent, secure, and technology-driven process. This announcement follows recent student protests and the resignation of the Union Education Minister. Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, chairs the committee.
Exam Reform Task Force Members
The task force comprises six experts from diverse fields. They will recommend structural overhauls for the National Testing Agency (NTA).
| Name | Role |
| Nandan Nilekani | Chairperson |
| Amrit Lal Meena | Logistics Expert |
| Anita Karwal | Education Expert |
| S Somanath | Science and Technology Expert |
| Dr. V. Kamakoti | Artificial Intelligence and Computing Expert |
| Tapan Deka | Security Expert |
Nandan Nilekani: Chairperson
Nilekani, a technocrat and digital infrastructure innovator, previously chaired the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). He oversaw the Aadhaar rollout. Nilekani will lead the panel in developing recommendations for a leak-proof examination system. He is tasked with designing a secure digital ecosystem for national exams.
Amrit Lal Meena: Logistics Expert
A retired IAS officer, Meena is responsible for securing the exam supply chain. His duties include tamper-proof transport and safe storage of question papers. He will also address vulnerabilities in physical storage at strongrooms and distribution centers.
Anita Karwal: Education Expert
Karwal, a former Education Secretary and CBSE Chairperson, will integrate technology into the exam process. She will review NTA protocols and digital evaluation of computer-based answer sheets. The goal is to improve accountability.
S. Somanath: Science and Technology Expert
The former Chairman of ISRO, Somanath, will introduce multi-layer testing protocols. He will focus on eliminating human error and establishing strict operational checks. His role includes structuring NTA operations and ensuring infrastructure can handle high user loads.
Dr. V. Kamakoti: Artificial Intelligence and Computing Expert
As Director of IIT Madras, Dr. Kamakoti will bolster the exam system against digital threats. He will design AI-powered surveillance for exam halls. He will also audit software and secure question banks with encryption.
Tapan Deka: Security Expert
Deka, a former Director of the Intelligence Bureau, will identify institutional leaks and map criminal networks. He will create security guidelines for printing presses, transit, and test centers. A background check framework for vendors and staff is also his responsibility.
Impact on Upcoming Exams
The task force's primary objective is to prevent leaks in national entrance exams, particularly NEET. Recommendations will focus on technology upgrades, logistics, and stricter rules. These changes aim to create a dependable, technology-driven testing framework. The panel's findings will inform decisions on computer-based testing for NEET UG.
