SBI Research has recommended several important changes related to the National Testing Agency (NTA). The report suggested giving the agency clear statutory powers, increasing a permanent team of experts and creating an independent monitoring system. NTA has conducted more than 240 exams since its inception in 2018 till July 2024 with more than 5.4 crore candidates. Amidst organizing major exams like JEE Main and NEET UG, the agency has faced issues like exam security, paper leaks and reliance on private agencies. Now SBI Research has presented a blueprint for changes in the existing system of NTA.

Suggestion of a separate law for NTA

SBI Research has recommended a separate law for NTA. Currently NTA is a body registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. It was registered in May 2018. At present there is no separate NTA legislation enacted by Parliament to determine the agency’s functions, powers and responsibilities towards candidates.

According to the report, the proposed legislation should clarify the role, governance, reporting and responsibilities of the NTA. At the same time, the Public Examinations (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act 2024 focuses on matters related to cheating and other unfair means in examinations.

Recommendation of Independent Expert Board

The report proposes a board of independent experts for the NTA. This may include experts in areas such as exam evaluation, technology, exam security, arrangements and facilities for disabled candidates. This board will monitor the exam preparations and work related to vendors. The Director General or Chief Executive Officer will be responsible for day-to-day operations, but will be accountable to the proposed Board. Along with this, the responsibilities of monitoring and administrative work will be separated.

Emphasis on increasing the number of permanent employees

SBI Research has suggested building a strong team of permanent and specialist personnel in NTA. According to the report, out of 194 employees announced in July 2024, 171 were contract or outsourced employees. That is, about 88 percent of the employees were in this category. The proposal calls for creation of an expert team within NTA for important functions like evaluation, IT, examination security, examination conduct and candidate support. This can help reduce dependence on external agencies.

A clear appeal and grievance system for candidates

The report also recommends creating a charter for candidates. In this, it is suggested to lay down a clear procedure and time limit for matters like objection to answer key, correction of marks, postponement of examination, re-examination and problems related to the examination centre. Apart from this, there is talk of creating an independent standards and appeal body. It will scrutinize the examination system and hear administrative appeals in serious cases.

Proposal to increase audit and transparency

SBI Research has suggested making information related to examination costs and conduct more transparent. Under this, examination-wise financial statements, CAG audit and annual report of examination-related incidents, appeals and performance of vendors are recommended. The main focus of the report is on clarifying responsibilities in the NTA, enhancing permanent expertise and strengthening the independent monitoring system. Along with this, it is proposed to clarify the accountability and grievance redressal process for candidates in examination conduct.