Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi ordered a significant overhaul of the National Testing Agency (NTA). This action follows the recent cancellation of the UGC NET examination. The ministry announced the changes on August 17, 2026. The reforms aim to strengthen the agency's operations and exam security.
NTA Overhaul Details
The directive came after a meeting between Minister Joshi, the Secretary of Higher Education, and NTA officials. They reviewed steps taken by NTA to address recent issues. The overhaul includes personnel changes and the creation of new leadership roles.
Key Changes Implemented
- More than 50 NTA staff members have been removed.
- Ten new specialized leadership positions are being filled.
- Experts in cybersecurity and psychometrics are being hired.
- Professionals in question-paper design are joining NTA.
New roles include Chief Technology Officer and Chief Finance Officer. The agency is also appointing a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). General Managers for Test Security and Research & Development are also part of the new structure. These positions are currently being advertised and onboarded.
Domain specialists are being recruited from the private sector. Areas of focus include cybersecurity, psychometrics, and question-paper design. This aims to bring external expertise to NTA's core functions.
Enhanced Exam Protocols
Minister Joshi stressed strict adherence to established exam protocols. He directed a complete review of operational architecture. This includes securing confidential operations (CONOPS).
The minister called for the implementation of secluded rooms. Air-gapped systems will also be used. Device-deposit protocols will be strengthened. These measures are to be enacted on a war footing. This signals an urgent need to improve exam integrity.
