The Indian government has opened a public consultation process, inviting citizens to provide feedback on significant reforms to the National Testing Agency (NTA) and the nation's competitive examination systems. A High-Powered Task Force (HPTF), constituted by the Government of India and chaired by industry veteran Nandan Nilekani, is spearheading this initiative.
Task Force Mandate and Focus Areas
The HPTF's primary objective is to examine and recommend measures for reforming the conduct, security, design, and overall governance of public examinations, including those administered by the NTA. This broad mandate covers several critical aspects:
- Preventing Malpractices: Developing concrete solutions to prevent and detect fraudulent activities in examinations.
- Assessment Methodologies: Improving the methods used for evaluating candidates.
- Grievance Redressal: Establishing effective systems for addressing complaints and concerns.
- Institutional Strengthening: Bolstering the systems and processes within examination bodies.
- Secure Technologies: Integrating advanced, secure technologies into the examination framework.
- Infrastructure Expansion: Enhancing the physical and digital infrastructure for exams.
- Accessibility and Inclusion: Ensuring equitable access for all socio-economic and regional groups.
- Student Well-being: Prioritizing the mental and physical health of students throughout the examination process.
How to Submit Feedback
To ensure widespread participation and gather diverse perspectives, the task force has set up multiple channels for stakeholders to submit their inputs. Students, parents, teachers, and citizens across the country are encouraged to share their experiences and suggestions. The deadline for submissions is September 13, 2026.
Feedback can be submitted through:
- A dedicated WhatsApp response line.
- A web portal.
- Email.
- A toll-free number.
Submissions are accepted in English, Hindi, or any regional language, emphasizing the panel's commitment to inclusive participation.
Impact of Public Consultation
The HPTF stressed the importance of tapping into the real-world experiences of a broad spectrum of individuals and entities, including candidates, academic institutions, state governments, subject matter experts, technology professionals, civil society organizations, and industry bodies. The insights gathered from this extensive consultation exercise will directly inform the final recommendations that the High-Powered Task Force will submit to the central government, aiming to make India's national assessments more secure, transparent, and future-ready.