The National Testing Agency (NTA) is planning to strengthen examination security by creating a permanent pool of independent observers. The pool will include retired armed forces and paramilitary personnel, government officers, and teachers. The move is part of a wider effort to improve the examination system following paper leaks and allegations of irregularities.
Why in the News?
On November 12, 2026, it was reported that NTA had issued two separate Expressions of Interest (EOIs).
- The EOIs invite applications for:
- Empanelment of independent examination observers.
- Empanelment of institutions and organisations as examination centres.
- The move follows the NEET-UG paper leak, which triggered nationwide student protests and raised concerns about examination security.
About the National Testing Agency (NTA)
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts national-level entrance and eligibility examinations across India and abroad. In line with the Public Examinations Amendment Act, 2026, the agency aims to strengthen examination security, ensure transparency, prevent malpractice, and improve monitoring through better supervision and accountability. Major examinations conducted by NTA include:
- NEET-UG
- JEE-Main
- UGC-NET
- CSIR-NET
- CUET (UG and PG)
Creation of a Permanent Pool of Independent Observers
NTA plans to create a standing pool of pre-verified observers to ensure timely deployment during examinations.
Role of Independent Observers:
An independent observer is deployed at every examination centre on the day of the examination. The observer represents NTA and works separately from the City Coordinator and Centre Superintendent.
- They monitor:
- Fairness and security of the examination.
- Smooth conduct of the examination.
- Compliance with examination-related requirements.
- They report directly to the NTA.
Categories of Eligible Observers:
NTA has invited applications under three categories:
- Retired Central and State Government Officers.
- Retired Armed Forces and Paramilitary Personnel.
- Retired or Serving Teachers and Professors from government schools, colleges and universities.
Observers for Overseas Examination Centres:
NTA will generally appoint observers from among Indian nationals residing in the same city as the examination centre.
- Eligible persons may include serving or retired officials of Indian Missions, retired Ministry of External Affairs officers and other eligible Indian nationals.
Empanelment of Examination Centres
NTA has also invited applications from institutions and organisations that own, operate or have legally enforceable rights to use suitable examination infrastructure. Centres with fewer than 285 computer workstations may also apply. However, they will be considered only in locations where examination infrastructure is limited. The minimum infrastructure requirements are:
| Requirement | Computer-Based Test (CBT) | Pen and Paper-Based Test (PPT) |
| Minimum capacity per shift | 285 workstations, including buffer | 250 seats, including buffer |
| Minimum number of labs/halls | 4 separate labs or halls | 6 separate examination halls |
| Minimum capacity per lab/hall | 30 workstations | 40 candidates |
| Examination duration | 3 hours in a single shift | 3 hours in a single shift |
Background: NEET-UG Paper Leak and Examination Reforms
The NEET-UG paper leak earlier in 2026 triggered nationwide student protests and raised serious concerns about the credibility and security of national-level examinations. The controversy also led to the resignation of then Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
- A day after his resignation, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi announced the formation of a high-powered task force.
- The task force was headed by Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, and was asked to recommend reforms to make the examination system leak-proof.
- The panel is yet to submit its report.
Significance of the Move
- Stronger Examination Security: Independent observers can improve monitoring at examination centres.
- Greater Accountability: Direct reporting to NTA can strengthen supervision and responsibility.
- Better Infrastructure: Empanelment of suitable institutions can help improve examination facilities.
- Reduced Irregularities: A pre-verified pool of observers may help prevent malpractice and improve the credibility of examinations.
Conclusion
The creation of a permanent pool of independent observers and the empanelment of examination centres are important steps towards strengthening the examination system. However, effective implementation, strict monitoring, and accountability will be essential to prevent paper leaks and restore students' confidence in national-level examinations.