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6 August 2026

Examination irregularities and NTA accountability

The topic involves significant governance issues regarding the accountability of a statutory body and the implementation of the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, which are core themes for GS2 and GS4.

1 min read Day 44 of 84 2 questions 1 prelims

Notes

  • The National Testing Agency (NTA) is facing scrutiny regarding its leadership accountability following examination irregularities in the NEET-UG.
  • Pradeep Kumar Joshi has served as NTA Chairman since August 2023, with previous tenures heading the MPPSC, CGPSC, and UPSC.
  • The Union Education Ministry has informed the Supreme Court that transitioning NEET-UG from pen-and-paper to Computer-Based Testing (CBT) is under active consideration.
  • Structural changes to examination modes are being reviewed in consultation with the Health Ministry and the National Medical Commission.
  • A task force chaired by Nandan Nilekani has been established to provide recommendations on examination reforms.
  • The Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2026, is cited by the government as a key legislative measure to address examination integrity.

Part of a longer story

This is day 44 of 84 in NEET-UG and National Examination Integrity Controversy, which has been running since 21 June 2026. Reading it whole is usually worth more than reading today alone — the exam asks how something developed.

Questions

  1. Discuss the challenges associated with maintaining the integrity of large-scale public examinations in India and the potential of technological interventions like Computer-Based Testing (CBT) in mitigating these risks. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. The credibility of autonomous testing agencies is vital for ensuring meritocracy in public recruitment and admissions. Analyze the institutional requirements for ensuring transparency, accountability, and professional independence in the functioning of such bodies. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following bodies is primarily responsible for the conduct of the National Entrance cum Eligibility Test (Undergraduate) in India?