The Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the Union Ministry of Education to submit an affidavit detailing steps taken to institutionalize the National Testing Agency (NTA). The directive comes in response to petitions concerning examination security and paper leaks. Justices P.S. Narasimha and Alok Aradhe emphasized that reforms must be permanent, not temporary.
NTA Institutionalization and Reforms
The court seeks information on establishing a permanent, secure testing system with scientific expertise. This system should resemble the operational framework of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). The affidavit must outline the implementation plan for recommendations from the Dr. K. Radhakrishnan Committee. These recommendations were further revised by the Nandan Nilekani Committee.
Key Court Observations
The Supreme Court highlighted the need for robust infrastructure. This includes enhanced technical capability and institutional memory to prevent future paper leaks. The court also stressed the importance of technology and data security measures.
Technology and Security Measures
Directives include the use of on-premise servers. Graphics processing units (GPUs) and a sovereign database are also proposed. Collaboration with C-DAC and NIC is expected for these technological advancements.
Permanent Security Roles
The bench suggested appointing permanent security officers at the Director level within the NTA. These officers will oversee the implementation of testing protocol measures.
Reform Focus Areas
| Reform Focus Area | Committee Proposals |
| Exam Delivery System | Transition to Computer-Based Testing (CBT). Encrypted digital paper distribution. Multi-session exams. |
| Security & Authentication | AI analytics. Aadhaar-linked biometrics. 'Digi-Exam' systems. Prevention of candidate impersonation. |
| Testing Infrastructure | Establishment of over 1,000 dedicated, permanent test centers nationwide. |
| Data Protection | Building robust cybersecurity frameworks. Developing in-house technical architecture. |
The Union Ministry of Education must submit its affidavit to the Supreme Court outlining these steps. The Federation of All India Medical Association (FAIMA) and United Doctors Front (UDF) filed the initial petitions.
