Centre Extends Nandan Nilekani Exam Reforms Panel Tenure to January
The central government extended the Nandan Nilekani-led task force tenure to January 2027 to gather state input on testing changes.
At a glance
- The exam reforms task force led by Nandan Nilekani received an extension until January 2027.
- The prime minister's office wants wider consultations with state chief ministers and chief secretaries.
- Proposals include a hybrid NEET-UG format for 2027 and a phased shift to computer-based testing by 2028.
- The panel is also considering debundling examination responsibilities and establishing district-level testing centres.
Until January 2027, the central government has prolonged the operational period of the committee on testing overhauls headed by Nandan Nilekani. Government officials stated that the prime minister's office requested broader consultations with state leaders and top administrative officers, requiring input from chief ministers and chief secretaries prior to the committee completing its final recommendations.
The task force was originally expected to report by the end of October following its formation in July after the NEET-UG controversy. The extra time will allow the panel to examine regional challenges related to testing infrastructure and administrative readiness.
Proposals for NEET and testing infrastructure
During recent consultations, experts and stakeholders proposed a hybrid format for NEET-UG 2027. This approach would allow sufficient time to build out the necessary infrastructure for a complete transition to computer-based testing by 2028.
Another key proposal involves creating a nationwide network of computer-based testing centres through a partnership between central and state governments alongside private investment. Officials noted this model aims to expand government oversight while utilising private capital, particularly in districts lacking secure and adequately equipped facilities.
The panel is also reviewing a debundling strategy to separate examination duties such as question-paper setting, test conduct, centre management, and security among distinct agencies. Additionally, the task force is looking at establishing exam centres in every district and aligning calendars for major testing bodies.
Understanding the policy direction
The extension of the task force highlights the administrative complexity of overhauling India's centralized testing apparatus after previous controversies. By engaging state leadership directly, the government seeks to address regional disparities in digital connectivity and infrastructure before locking in structural changes. The success of these reforms will depend heavily on coordinating funding and security standards across federal, state, and private stakeholders.
What to watch: The task force is expected to complete its state consultations and submit its final recommendations by January 2027.
Reporting from: Times of India. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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