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Before NEET-UG leak, parliamentary panel backed pen-and-paper exams
A Parliamentary Standing Committee backed pen-and-paper mode for entrance exams, citing leak-proof records of CBSE and UPSC and urging the NTA to study these models. The stance contrasts with a ISRO-led high-level committee that favored computer-based testing. The panel also proposed a blacklist of firms involved in paper-setting and suggested using NTA’s surplus funds to strengthen exam monitoring.
Why It Matters
This reflects policy tension over how to safeguard entrance exams from leaks and hacking, potentially shaping the NEET-UG format and testing governance in India.
Timeline
2 Events
ISRO chairman-led high-level committee recommends computer-based testing
May 15, 2026
The article contrasts the committee's recommendations with a separate ISRO chairman K Radhakrishnan-led high-level committee, which had recommended shifting from pen-and-paper testing to computer-based testing.
Parliamentary Standing Committee backs pen-and-paper exams for entrance tests
May 15, 2026
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Education, Women, Children, Youth and Sports stated that pen-and-paper examinations have leak-proof track records in exams such as CBSE and UPSC, and advised the National Testing Agency to closely study these models and consider implementing them. The report notes this stance in the context of the NEET-UG paper leak and cancellation situation.