The NTA exam overhaul is gathering pace as the National Testing Agency (NTA) strengthens its examination infrastructure following the NEET UG 2026 paper leak controversy. The agency has empanelled more than 5,000 academicians, scientists, researchers, educators and translators to improve question paper preparation, verification and examination security.
The experts are expected to contribute to several stages of the examination process, including question setting, translation, vetting, answer-key verification, curriculum mapping and psychometric validation.
The agency is also developing a large question bank from which questions can be selected closer to examination dates. The approach is intended to reduce the possibility of advance access to final question papers and strengthen confidentiality.
NTA Introduces Stricter Expert Verification
The empanelment process reportedly includes verification of academic qualifications, professional experience and research credentials. Selected experts will also be required to sign non-disclosure agreements before undertaking examination-related assignments.
As part of its wider restructuring exercise, the NTA has reportedly removed around 600 subject experts.
The measures are aimed at improving accountability and strengthening the reliability of national-level examinations conducted by the agency.
Nandan Nilekani Panel Gets Extension Until January 2027
Alongside the NTA's internal changes, the Centre is reviewing the broader examination system through a six-member task force headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.
The government has extended the committee's tenure until January 2027 to allow additional time for consultations and final recommendations.
The panel has reportedly received more than 50,000 suggestions from students, parents, teachers and other stakeholders.
Its recommendations are expected to examine measures such as a secure digital question vault, random question selection and improvements to examination infrastructure. The committee has also consulted former ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan as part of its review.
NEET UG to Shift to Computer-Based Testing in 2027
Another major proposed change concerns the format of NEET UG. The Centre has announced that the medical entrance examination will move to the computer-based test (CBT) format from 2027.
The transition is intended to address vulnerabilities in the existing examination system and improve confidence among candidates.
The NTA conducts several major national examinations, including NEET UG, JEE Main, CUET and UGC NET. Any changes to its examination procedures could therefore affect millions of students across the country.
The effectiveness of the ongoing reforms will ultimately depend on implementation, particularly the agency's ability to ensure transparency, confidentiality and fairness throughout the examination process.
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