Four-tier paper checking system, CISF security: Centre makes big NTA overhaul after NEET row

In a follow-up meeting regarding the NTA, Union Education Minister Pralhad Joshi on Tuesday directed that all necessary security measures and requisite infrastructure be ensured for the smooth conduct of examinations. Following the Minister's directives, the Director General of the NTA provided an update on the actions taken so far.

He said comprehensive changes have been made to the examination team and 600 experts have been replaced with new ones. “A four-tier question paper verification system will be implemented to strengthen the scrutiny and review of question papers," he added. He further stated that 20–25 officials will be appointed over the next 2–3 weeks and plans for further appointments were reviewed.

Moreover, the NTA offices will be relocated to new premises on a war footing and the security arrangements at the new premises will be further strengthened through the deployment of CISF teams.

The Centre announced the major overhaul of the examination system at the



National Testing Agency, including a four-tier paper checking process, removal of 600 experts along with onboarding of new ones and CISF-secured office premises.

NTA sources, however, stated that it had acted in the interest of students and said internal processes and protocols are being reviewed to ensure that all exams are fair and error-free in the future.

The NTA proactively looked into the complaints and decided to conduct re-tests, with all corrective measures being taken in the overall interest of candidates and to strengthen the foundation of a more accountable examination system. Taking big action in the NEET paper leak controversy, the National Testing Agency terminated 47 officials in July. Later, it axed more officials, taking the total number to over 50.

However, 10 new professional leadership positions, including chief technology officer, chief finance officer, CISO, GM (test security) and GM (R and D and psychometrics), have been advertised and are being onboarded.