A committee headed by former ISRO chief Koppillil Radhakrishnan has proposed significant reforms following the recent paper leak incident concerning the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEETUG).
The committee’s report, recently submitted to the Ministry of Education, includes various measures aimed at enhancing the integrity and efficiency of entrance examinations across the country, according to a report by The Indian Express.
Key proposals
The committee recommends the following strategies to modernise entrance examinations:
Online testing and hybrid model: The hybrid exam model, where the question paper is digitally sent to the exam centre, allows candidates to respond on an OMR sheet. This approach is expected to reduce the risk of question paper leaks, as it limits the number of hands the paper passes through.
Multi-stage Exam: The proposal includes implementing a multi-stage examination process for medical candidates, akin to the structure of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). This approach could help handle the high number of applicants, with approximately 25 lakh registered for NEET-UG this year.
Enhancing NTA staffing: There is a call for the National Testing Agency (NTA) to hire more permanent staff members rather than relying predominantly on contract personnel. This move is aimed at improving the administration and management of exams.
Increased focus on data security: A 7-member committee aims to enhance data security protocols and improve the efficiency of the examination process. It recommends that the National Testing Agency (NTA) take on a more active role in exam management, including expanding the number of examination centers under its control rather than relying on external providers. Currently, exams are held mainly in government-run institutions, with private centers utilized only when essential, according to the report.
Limit no of attempts: The Radhakrishnan panel also suggests setting a cap on the number of NEETUG attempts, in contrast to the present system, which permits unlimited attempts. This measure aims to promote fairness in the examination process and motivate candidates to prepare more thoroughly for each attempt, according to the report.
The Medical Bulletin
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