Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced on Tuesday that the National Testing Agency (NTA) will exclusively focus on conducting higher education entrance exams starting in 2025. This decision is part of a broader effort to reform the examination process following recent controversies, including alleged leaks in the NEET medical entrance exam and other recruitment tests.
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Key Changes to NTA’s Role
- No Recruitment Exams: The NTA will no longer conduct recruitment exams. It will focus solely on higher education entrance tests like CUET, NEET, and JEE.
- Entrance Exams Once a Year: The Common University Entrance Test (CUET)-UG will continue to be held annually.
- Exam Mode Under Review: Discussions are ongoing with the Health Ministry to decide whether exams should remain pen-and-paper-based or transition fully to Computer-Based Tests (CBT).
- Technology-Driven Testing: The government is exploring the adoption of computer-adaptive tests and advanced technologies to ensure efficiency and reliability.
Restructuring of NTA in 2025
The NTA will undergo significant restructuring in 2025 to enhance its functioning. Key highlights include:
- Creation of at least 10 new posts to strengthen the agency.
- Introduction of measures to achieve zero-error testing.
- Improved infrastructure and technology to prevent issues like exam leaks and cancellations.
Examination Reforms Following Controversies
The decision to limit NTA’s responsibilities comes after multiple controversies, including alleged leaks in NEET and disruptions in other recruitment exams. The reforms are expected to restore confidence in the examination process and ensure smooth, error-free testing.
Pradhan emphasized that these changes align with the government’s vision to make entrance exams more transparent, efficient, and technology-driven.
Stay updated for further announcements about the restructured NTA and new testing mechanisms.