EXAM REFORM
NEET-UG 2027 may retain pen-and-paper option as southern states push back against exam overhaul
Centre's proposed examination reforms have encountered resistance from southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu and Kerala, potentially delaying a full transition to computer-based NEET-UG until 2028-29. The Nilekani panel is considering a gradual shift, retaining the pen-and-paper option in 2027 while building consensus and addressing concerns over accessibility.
Centre gives Nandan Nilekani-led exam reform panel more time, extends deadline to January 2027
Centre has extended the deadline for the Nandan Nilekani-led examination reform task force to January 2027. The six-member panel has received over 50,000 suggestions and consulted former ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan. Its mandate includes recommending measures to prevent paper leaks and strengthen India's examination system following repeated NEET controversies.
Nandan Nilekani, NEET reform panel head, wants to end ‘question papers’: Infosys co-founder has an unusual plan to prevent paper leaks
Nandan Nilekani's Anti-Neet Paper Leak Plan: Nandan Nilekani has proposed generating NEET question papers at the last minute using AI and a large question bank to reduce paper leak risks. The Infosys co-founder also wants India to expand computer-based testing facilities as part of wider examination reforms.
Nandan Nilekani calls for AI-generated question papers, nationwide computer-based testing
Nandan Nilekani suggested a significant change in India's examination framework during the Bloomberg Economic Forum. He emphasized the use of artificial intelligence to create question papers on the day of the exam. This approach aims to eliminate the risk of leaks and fraud associated with traditional question papers. Nilekani noted the importance of transitioning to a Computer-Based Testing model nationwide for equitable access.
Parliamentary panel seeks ban on rallies, public gatherings on crucial exam days
A Parliamentary committee has recommended that district administrations prohibit rallies and public gatherings on examination days. This measure aims to prevent disruptions that could impact candidates' ability to arrive on time. Candidates who arrive late may face entry denial, wasting their preparation efforts due to minor delays. The report also suggests separate time for formalities to minimize disturbances during exams.
Parliamentary panel indicts NTA; hope 'arrogant' Modi govt takes it seriously: Congress
Congress raised serious issues regarding the National Testing Agency, including malpractice and incompetence. A recent Parliamentary Standing Committee report outlines claims of paper leaks since 2017, contradicting official statements. The NTA's structure lacks accountability, as it heavily relies on private contractors for examinations. Additionally, the agency has earned significant revenue but failed to invest in improving examination infrastructure.
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NEET UG should be computer-based, NTA must vet paper setters, says Parliamentary panel
A Parliamentary panel has made several recommendations regarding the NEET (UG) examination and the National Testing Agency. It suggests that NEET (UG) should transition to a computer-based testing format for greater efficiency. The panel emphasizes the importance of having a reliable system to evaluate the integrity of paper setters. Furthermore, it recommends a robust question bank without prior knowledge of the questions.
CUET-UG 2027 big change: Fewer subjects, shorter papers & possible one-day exam being considered
CUET-UG 2027 could see major changes, with the Ministry of Education, UGC and NTA considering fewer subjects, shorter exam papers and a new subject-grouping system. The proposed format could allow students to complete their entrance test in a single day, reducing examination days and travel. The final changes will depend on consultations with universities and the testing agency.
France student protest and India's CJP movement share one demand: Young people want to be heard, not policed
Young students in France have recently mobilized to demand improvements in education funding and resources. Protests have spread across hundreds of schools and universities, emphasizing the need for more teachers and smaller class sizes. Despite significant government spending on education, many school facilities remain dilapidated and overcrowded. The unrest has led to clashes with police, raising concerns about the treatment of youth during protests.
More than 1,400 years ago, China challenged hereditary privilege with civil service exams; centuries before Max Weber explained the bureaucracy modern states rely on
In 581 CE, Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty abolished China's Nine-Rank System, an ancient framework that reserved civil appointments for landed aristocratic families. Imperial authorities instituted competitive written examinations, creating the foundation for theKeju. Under the subsequent Tang and Song dynasties, this testing apparatus became the primary mechanism for state administration.
Beginning a new chapter: Eight surrendered Maoists clear Class 10 open school exam in Chhattisgarh
Geeta Narote, a former Maoist cadre, has cleared the Class 10 State Open School examination. After surrendering, she received support from the government and began studying again. Along with several other surrendered cadres, she expressed a desire to pursue further education. Narote aims to build a new life and become a nurse in the future. Officials highlighted the importance of education in helping these individuals reintegrate into society.
NEET-UG may go online as Centre works on national exam-grade CBT infrastructure
The Ministry of Education is developing a strategy for transitioning NEET-UG to computer-based testing. This includes addressing challenges related to infrastructure and accessibility for candidates nationwide. A high-powered task force is also involved in recommending reforms for India's public examination system. NEET-UG is the largest undergraduate entrance examination with around 25 lakh candidates appearing annually. The recommendations from this task force are expected to influence the future of NEET-UG assessments.
Bangladesh women lose ground after quota reform
Bangladesh's 2024 student-led uprising was fuelled by a demand that coveted government jobs be awarded on merit, not through quotas. In 2024, it was proposed to reinstate quotas, sparking student protests.
School Assembly News Headlines, September 29: Top India, world, sports, business news and current affairs
School Assembly News Headlines, September 29, 2026: Today’s key updates include the Supreme Court’s UPI MDR decision, bank strike deferment, El Niño concerns, Asian Games medals for India, international developments, and India’s upcoming orbital computing satellite launch on a SpaceX rideshare mission.
Maharashtra Public Service Commission postpones State Services Main Exam 2026 amid review demands
Maharashtra Public Service Commission has postponed the State Services Main Examination scheduled for October 3, 2026. This decision follows demands from aspirants and political groups regarding reforms in the examination process. Protests had erupted previously due to a paper leak in the MPSC Drug Inspector exam, leading to calls for the chairman's resignation. Political figures, including Cockroach Janta Party convenor Abhijeet Dipke, have highlighted the need for accountability.
Exam reforms: Nilekani-led panel consults ex-ISRO chief who headed Radhakrishnan Committee
The Nandan Nilekani-led high-level task force is currently consulting various stakeholders on exam reforms. This task force was formed following the controversies surrounding recent NEET paper leaks. It aims to recommend comprehensive reforms to enhance the security and transparency of examination processes. The previous Radhakrishnan Committee's recommendations are being studied to prevent future leaks. The task force continues its discussions with experts from various educational and governmental backgrounds.
IIT-B student’s suicide: Experts call for ‘psychological autopsies’ to identify preventable factors
Student suicides in India rose to 14,448 in 2024 despite a marginal decline in the overall suicide rate, with experts cautioning against reducing the crisis to exam pressure alone. Psychiatrists call for psychological autopsies, stronger peer support and continuous mental health care to identify preventable factors and improve institutional responses.
CJP convenor Abhijeet Dipke seeks MPSC chairman's resignation over 'corruption' allegations, slams Maharashtra CM Fadnavis
Abhijeet Dipke of CJP demanded MPSC reforms and chairman Vivek Bhimanwar's resignation. He highlighted state unemployment and criticized Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Dipke urged aspirants to post videos online for Bhimanwar's removal. He linked alleged corruption to Fadnavis and questioned fund usage for political gains. Dipke also cited examples of student protests leading to government action and resignations.
JEE Advanced, JAM may come under stricter anti-cheating law after NEET-UG paper leak fallout
Discussions are underway regarding bringing IIT-administered exams under a stringent unfair means prevention act. This move aims to deter paper leaks and misconduct in crucial entrance examinations. However, concerns exist about the potential impact on the autonomy of national importance institutes. The recently amended act imposes stricter penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines for offenders. This potential inclusion is being debated within the IIT-IISc community.
SC judges to visit NTA office, say institutional strengthening needed to curb NEET paper leaks
Supreme Court judges will visit NTA facilities to examine system upgrades. The National Testing Agency has overhauled its entire mechanism to prevent paper leaks. A high-powered panel is suggesting structural reforms for competitive examinations. The government is prioritising institutionalising the entire examination process. The court seeks to ensure permanency and functionality of the NTA's system.
ABVP submits 'comprehensive recommendations' on exam reforms to Nilekani-led task force
Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) has proposed a set of measures to reform the competitive examination system. It recommended that major competitive exams be conducted in two stages to improve the candidate selection process. The student organisation also suggested exploring the possibility of conducting the NEET exam twice a year for medical aspirants.
Nandan Nilekani, Infosys co-founder, named in SIR's ‘no-mapping’ category
Nandan Nilekani and his family received Election Commission notices regarding voter list discrepancies. These notices were generated because their names were not found in the 2002 voter list. Officials are checking records to resolve these discrepancies without issuing further notices. Nilekani currently leads a government task force on examination reforms. He is also known for his work with Aadhaar and digital public infrastructure initiatives.
90-Minute Lucknow meet: CJP co-convener Ranka's courtesy call on Akhilesh Yadav sparks political buzz
A meeting between Ashutosh Ranka of CJP and Akhilesh Yadav of SP fueled political speculation. Ranka clarified CJP's focus remains non-electoral advocacy and thanked SP for their support. Discussions included the Uttar Pradesh government's closure of primary schools. Both SP and CJP now emphasize state-run educational institutions nationally.
MPSC exam paper leak: Aspirants protest in Pune; NCP (SP), Cong leaders back agitation
MPSC aspirants marched in Pune demanding transparency and action against alleged paper leaks. They called for the resignation of the MPSC chairman and secretary. Protesters sought an inquiry into the Drug Inspector exam and evaluation errors. They also demanded a forensic audit of examinations and public disclosure of reports.
Government must listen to Maharashtra students' voice otherwise 'Chhatron ki Goonj' will grow louder: Rahul Gandhi
Rahul Gandhi voiced concerns over thousands of Maharashtra students protesting system failures. He stated that students are tormented by the BJP government's actions. The protests stem from shattered trust in the entire examination system. The Maharashtra government has formed a committee to review recruitment examinations.
States unanimous on shift to Computer-based exams; government centres
State governments show strong backing for Computer Based Testing in entrance exams, emphasizing the need for reliable, government-supported testing facilities along with high quality standards. Discussions also revolved around a sustainable funding model for establishing these centers. Led by Nandan Nilekani, the task force is advocating for complete digitization of the process, with recommendations anticipated before October to prepare for the 2027 exam cycle.
Start career help from class 8, fix schooling to curb coaching: Panel
A government panel suggests starting career guidance from Class 8 and creating a national aptitude portal. Voluntary after-school classes will support students preparing for entrance exams. External coaching might be restricted to after Class 10 and limited hours. Entrance exams could be held from Class 11, twice yearly. Board exam marks will account for up to fifty percent of entrance scores.
Bihar govt accepts key demands, teacher aspirants call off 10-day hunger strike
Bihar government will conduct the Teacher Recruitment Examination in a single phase. The preliminary and mains stages have been scrapped, and "One Candidate, One Result" is accepted. A special committee will review examination reforms and hear student grievances. The government also established a "Student Assistance Portal" for quick complaint redressal. These decisions ended a 10-day hunger strike by teacher aspirants.
Nilekani panel races to ready roadmap ahead of October deadline for 2027 rollout
A dedicated task force is devising a comprehensive action plan for NEET-UG and other entrance examinations. Their goal is to implement a multi-day computer-based testing system for NEET-UG. Engaging the public for feedback and consulting with relevant government agencies, they aim to finalize recommendations by mid-September, ensuring timely execution. This initiative is focused on bolstering the credibility of future assessments.
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