Agency launches sweeping reforms; new recruitments drive and security measures as examination overhaul gathers pace following the 2026 NEET controversary
New Delhi: The National Testing Agency (NTA) has dismissed 47 officials as part of a major institutional overhaul following the alleged NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, marking the beginning of a wider effort to restore confidence in India’s examination system.
According to sources, the dismissals are the first phase of a comprehensive restructuring, with legal and criminal proceedings likely against some officials based on internal inquiries and findings from investigating agencies. The NTA has not disclosed the identities of those removed.
The reforms follow recommendations made by the High-Level Committee of Experts led by former ISRO chairman K. Radhakrishnan, which called for reducing the agency’s dependence on contractual staff and strengthening accountability.
As part of the revamp, the NTA has announced recruitment for four General Manager posts in assessment research, test centre operations, information security, and vigilance. Applications have also been invited for 16 Young Professional positions through the UPSC’s Pratibha Setu portal.
Further reforms include filling key leadership positions and transitioning NEET-UG to a fully computer-based examination from 2027 to improve security and transparency.
The overhaul comes amid continued protests over the NEET-UG paper leak, which led to the cancellation of the original examination and a nationwide re-test involving more than 2.2 million candidates. The CBI has arrested 13 people in connection with the case and is expected to file its chargesheet later this month.
Also Read: Hailakandi Market Fire: 25 Shops Gutted, Traders Alleges Delay in Fire Brigade Response
