The Centre has constituted a high-level task force under the leadership of Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to recommend sweeping reforms for the National Testing Agency (NTA) and strengthen India’s examination system against paper leaks and malpractice.
The panel brings together experts from technology, cybersecurity, intelligence, logistics and education administration to prepare a roadmap aimed at improving transparency, security and operational efficiency. According to sources, the members were selected after extensive deliberations, with the committee expected to submit recommendations to the government.
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Nandan Nilekani is expected to focus on modernising the technological backbone of examinations. Drawing on his experience with large-scale digital platforms such as Aadhaar and UPI, he could recommend encrypted examination systems, stronger data protection measures and AI-based biometric verification to curb impersonation.
IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti is likely to contribute to securing computer-based examinations by strengthening software infrastructure and introducing AI-powered randomisation of question papers, making it more difficult for candidates to exploit system vulnerabilities.
Former ISRO chairman S. Somanath is expected to bring expertise in designing zero-error processes and multi-layer verification systems inspired by space missions. His recommendations may include rigorous checks across every stage of the examination cycle, from question paper preparation to result declaration.
Former Intelligence Bureau director Tapan Deka could help develop intelligence-led surveillance and cyber monitoring mechanisms to identify and prevent the activities of organised paper leak networks before examinations take place.
Logistics expert Amrit Lal Meena may recommend tamper-proof transportation and storage systems, including GPS tracking and digitally secured containers for question papers. Former Education Secretary Anita Karwal is expected to advise on academic reforms, evaluation policies, answer key dispute resolution and standard operating procedures for examination centres.
Together, the panel aims to create a more secure, transparent and reliable examination framework capable of restoring public confidence in India’s competitive testing system.
