Introduction
- The National Testing Agency (NTA) has faced significant criticism recently, particularly regarding the NEET and UGC-NET examinations.
- These issues have raised concerns about the integrity and reliability of the NEET exam.
- The recent cancellation of the UGC-NET exam has further damaged the NTA’s reputation. This cancellation has intensified scrutiny and criticism of the agency’s ability to conduct fair and secure examinations.
Role of National Testing Agency (NTA)
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Establishment and Purpose:
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- NTA was established as a Society under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860.
- It serves as an autonomous organization tasked with conducting entrance examinations for admission and fellowship in higher educational institutions.
Envisaged Role:
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- Conducting efficient, transparent, and internationally standardized tests to assess candidates for admission and recruitment purposes.
- Relieving other agencies like CBSE and AICTE from the responsibility of conducting entrance examinations.
Incorporation of Online Mode:
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- NTA introduced online modes for exams like JEE Mains, enhancing accessibility and offering multiple opportunities to candidates.
Infrastructure and Global Practices:
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- Developed mobile apps and Test Practice Centres (TPCs) for simulated practice, democratizing access to education.
- Adopted global best practices in testing to ensure reliability, transparency, and standardized difficulty levels.
Implementation of POA 1992:
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- Implementation aimed at fulfilling the Programme of Action (POA), 1992, for a common entrance exam on a national basis.
Research and Training:
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- Establishing a robust R&D culture and expert pool to provide advisory services and training to educational institutions.
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Issues with NTA’s Functioning
Controversies and Irregularities:
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- Allegations of exam irregularities such as suspected paper leaks and technical glitches, notably in exams like NEET-UG.
High Scores and Grace Marks:
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- Instances of unusually high scores and the awarding of grace marks have raised concerns over the examination process’s fairness.
Lack of Transparency and Accountability:
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- Criticisms regarding NTA’s opacity in addressing student concerns, including refusal of demands for investigations and retests.
Operational and Administrative Challenges:
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- Centralized structure leading to operational difficulties, with many test centres lacking adequate infrastructure for monitoring.
Reversion to Pen-and-Paper Mode:
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- Shifts in exam modes, like UGC-NET’s reversal to offline mode, have raised vulnerability to leaks and logistical challenges.
Way Forward
Enhance Operational Transparency:
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- Ensure full transparency in exam conduct and result publication to regain credibility.
Accountability and Reform:
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- Institute reforms to improve systems and personnel accountability, preventing future technical glitches and malpractices.
Decentralize Operations:
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- Consider decentralizing NTA’s operations to enhance efficiency and mitigate logistical challenges on a national scale.
Collaboration with State Governments:
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- Collaborate with state governments to share responsibilities and strengthen the integrity of national-level entrance examinations.
