NEET, NET: AICTE chairman highlights government initiatives for transparency, integrity in exams

NEW DELHI: In light of recent UGC NET, NEET 2024 examination irregularities, the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, has undertaken measures to ensure the transparency and integrity of the country's examination system. Amid allegations of irregularities in entrance exams, students, faculties, opposition leaders have criticized the government for the discrepancies and called for accountability. The opposition's attacks escalated following the postponement of the NEET PG 2024 exam, making it the fourth entrance exam to be affected recently.

AICTE Chairman, TG Sitharam, outlined the following steps that are being implemented by the ministry of education to maintain the standards in education and prevent any malpractices in the examination system.

Leadership change at NTA

One of the key steps taken includes the reassignment of leadership at the National Testing Agency (NTA). According to the AICTE's post, the recent appointment of Pradeep Singh Kharola as the head of NTA underscores the government’s commitment to accountability and the smooth conduct of exams.

Formation of high-level committee

A high-level committee of experts, chaired by the esteemed K Radhakrishnan, has been constituted to recommend reforms aimed at improving examination processes and bolstering data security protocols. As per AICTE's post, this initiative is a testament to the government's dedication to maintaining high educational standards and ensuring the integrity of examination systems.

Posting on X, Dharmendra Pradhan said, "Transparent, tamper-free and zero-error examinations is a commitment."

"Setting up of the high-level committee of experts is the first of a series of step to improve efficiency of the examination process, put an end to all possible malpractices, strengthen data security protocols and overhaul and reform the NTA. Student interests and their bright future will always be our govt’s top priority," he added.

Action based on inputs from MHA's 14C unit:

In response to inputs from the Ministry of Home Affairs’ 14C unit, the government has initiated CBI probe into alleged irregularities in the UGC NET 2024 and NEET (UG) 2024 examinations. According to AICTE's post this action exemplifies the government's zero-tolerance approach towards any form of malpractice in examinations. The inquiries aim to identify and address any breaches, thereby restoring confidence in the examination system.

UGC, NEET Row: Implementation of the Public Examination Act

According to AICTE, the implementation of the Public Examination Act marks a pivotal step towards eliminating unfair practices in public examinations. The Act prescribes stringent penalties, including fines up to 1 crore and imprisonment for up to 10 years for offenders. This legislative measure is designed to deter malpractices and ensure the credibility and fairness of examinations.

TG Sitharam emphasized the importance of these measures in fostering a trustworthy and reliable examination system. He said, "The Govt remains steadfast in its commitment to reforming and strengthening our education system. Together, we strive towards a transparent and equitable environment for all students."