SBI Research Suggests New NTA Law, Independent Board and Major Exam Reforms
SBI Research has proposed a separate NTA law, independent oversight, permanent staff and an appeals mechanism as part of wider exam reforms.
SBI Research has proposed a separate law for the National Testing Agency (NTA), along with an independent governing board, permanent professional staff and a dedicated mechanism for examination standards and candidate appeals.
The recommendations come amid continued scrutiny of India's high-stakes examination system. SBI Research has suggested replacing the NTA's current status as a society with a statutory body created through an Act of Parliament. The proposed framework would clearly define its powers, responsibilities, governance and accountability.
The report also recommends an independent board comprising experts in assessment, technology, examination security, logistics and accessibility. The board would oversee examination readiness and vendors, while the NTA's chief executive would handle day-to-day operations.
Another proposal is to build permanent in-house expertise in examination technology, security, assessment and candidate support, reducing dependence on outsourced services for critical functions.
SBI Research has further suggested an independent Standards and Appeals Body to audit high-risk processes and handle serious administrative appeals. Stronger question-paper security, independent reviews and improved grievance mechanisms have also been recommended.
The report points to China's Gaokao for lessons in managing examinations at massive scale.
Beyond exams, it calls for greater higher-education funding, filling vacant teaching posts, stronger research-industry links and faster expansion of vocational training. It also suggests examining whether Article 21 could recognise a right to free and fair educational opportunity.
Basically, the report's message is clear: when crores of students are taking exams, “jugaad” cannot be the operating system.
