In response to widespread concerns following the NEET paper leak scandal, a government-appointed committee led by former ISRO chief Dr K. Radhakrishnan has proposed a series of reforms aimed at tightening security, reducing administrative vulnerabilities, and enhancing the overall examination process for major entrance tests, including NEET and the Central University Entrance Test (CUET).
The committee’s report, recently submitted to the Education Ministry, reportedly includes recommendations to conduct entrance exams online, implement a hybrid examination model where necessary, and restructure the operations of the National Testing Agency (NTA).
Key reforms for security and efficiency
The committee, established after the NEET-UG paper leak triggered a national outcry, has made sweeping recommendations to bolster data security and reduce the risk of future exam malpractices. A core proposal is to transition to online exams, which would limit the physical handling of question papers. Where online exams may not be feasible, a hybrid model is suggested, allowing digital transmission of questions to test centres with answers to be marked on OMR sheets. This model, the committee notes, could reduce the number of intermediaries involved in exam preparation and handling—a critical factor in preventing breaches.
“Under the proposed hybrid system, question papers would be transmitted digitally, with responses marked on paper, ensuring the integrity of the exam process by minimising the physical movement of the paper,” a source explained. This move aims to prevent incidents like the NEET-UG paper leak, where the question paper was accessed illegally after reaching a centre in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand. Digital transmission could enable last-minute question delivery, reducing opportunities for unauthorised access.
Recommendations for NEET and CUET
To address specific concerns surrounding NEET, the Radhakrishnan-led panel has proposed a two-stage exam format, akin to the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) model used for engineering aspirants. With nearly 20 lakh candidates appearing for NEET-UG annually, the committee suggested this restructuring could help streamline the evaluation process. Additionally, the committee recommended introducing a cap on the number of NEET attempts, replacing the current system that allows unlimited retakes, to reduce pressure on the examination framework.
For the CUET, which currently allows candidates to select from over 50 subjects, the committee proposed limiting subject choices to streamline the assessment process and reduce complexity. “Why should a science student, who has already appeared for Board exams, have to sit for another test in the same subjects?” an official noted, adding that the committee believes CUET should primarily assess general aptitude and relevant subject knowledge rather than testing multiple subject areas repeatedly. This change, the committee argues, would not only simplify the admission process but also minimise the number of question papers and staff needed, thereby enhancing confidentiality.
Strengthening National Testing Agency (NTA)
In its review of the National Testing Agency, which conducts NEET, CUET, and other national entrance exams, the committee identified a need for increased permanent staffing. Currently, the NTA relies heavily on contractual personnel, which the panel noted as a potential risk to consistent operational standards. “For an agency managing high-stakes exams with millions of applicants, a more stable workforce is essential to maintaining security and efficiency,” the report highlighted. The panel also advised that the government expand the number of exam centres it operates directly, reducing dependence on third-party service providers and private centres, which are often used when additional venues are needed.
This increased control, combined with the recommended changes to the NTA’s staffing, is anticipated to improve oversight and ensure consistent, secure management of examination protocols.
High-level panel composition
The seven-member panel included experts such as former AIIMS Director Dr. Randeep Guleria, Hyderabad Central University Vice-Chancellor B.J. Rao, Professor Emeritus Ramamurthy K of IIT Madras, Karmayogi Bharat Board Member Pankaj Bansal, IIT Delhi Professor Aditya Mittal, and Joint Secretary of the Education Ministry Govind Jaiswal. Beyond NEET and CUET, the panel’s recommendations are intended to fortify the security and operational framework of all national exams managed by the NTA.
The Education Ministry is expected to review the committee’s recommendations for further action in the coming months.
