In light of recent controversies surrounding the NEET and UGC-NET examinations, a high-level committee has been established to gather ideas and suggestions for overhauling the National Testing Agency (NTA). The committee is seeking input from students, parents, and the general public to ensure a fair, transparent, and efficient examination process.
Formation of High-Level Expert Council
The Ministry of Education formed a high-level expert council in response to issues related to the NEET and UGC-NET exams. This council aims to revamp the NTA’s examination processes to uphold integrity and fairness. Led by Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, the former chairman of ISRO, the committee invites feedback through a dedicated website: https://innovateindia.mygov.in/examination-reforms-nta.
Public Feedback Open Until July 7
The committee is accepting suggestions until July 7. Inputs from the public will help the committee in improving data security, restructuring the examination process, and enhancing the overall functionality of the NTA. This initiative aims to address concerns raised by recent allegations of irregularities and to restore trust in the examination system.
Focus on Strengthening SOPs and Protocols
The committee’s mandate includes a comprehensive review of the NTA’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and protocols. It will make recommendations to strengthen these procedures and implement robust monitoring systems to ensure compliance at all levels. The goal is to create a reliable framework that can withstand scrutiny and prevent future discrepancies.
Findings to Be Presented in Two Months
The seven-member committee, chaired by Dr. Radhakrishnan, is expected to present its findings to the Ministry of Education within two months. The government has expressed its commitment to acting on the recommendations to improve the examination process and safeguard the interests of students.
Government Ready for Discussion on NEET-UG 2024
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan emphasized the government’s readiness to discuss any issues related to the NEET-UG 2024. Speaking to the media, Pradhan highlighted the importance of maintaining tradition and decorum in these discussions. He reiterated the government’s responsibility towards the youth and stressed that any concerns regarding the examination would be addressed thoroughly.
Commitment to Strict Action Against Irregularities
Pradhan assured that the government would take stringent action against anyone found guilty of malpractice in the examinations. He stated that those in charge of the NTA had been replaced, and the responsibility had been handed over to senior officials. The government is determined to uphold the integrity of the examination process and will not spare anyone involved in irregularities.
Appeal to Opposition for Constructive Dialogue
The education minister appealed to the Opposition not to confuse students with misinformation. He encouraged them to join the discussion and support the reforms. Pradhan underscored the government’s commitment to a credible and transparent examination process and assured that new exam dates for postponed or canceled tests would be announced soon.
Addressing NEET-UG 2024 Concerns
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (Undergraduate), or NEET-UG, was conducted on May 5 by the NTA, with around 24 lakh candidates participating. Following the declaration of results on June 4, allegations of irregularities and question paper leaks emerged, particularly in states like Bihar.
Government’s Response to Recent Irregularities
President Droupadi Murmu addressed the issue during a joint session of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. She emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing recent irregularities and leaks, promising a fair investigation and strict punishment for those responsible. The focus remains on improving the examination process to ensure fairness and transparency.
The call for input from the public and the formation of the high-level committee demonstrate the government’s proactive approach to reforming the NTA and restoring confidence in its examination system.
(With inputs for agencies)
