PM Modi Announces High-Powered Task Force on Examination Reforms, Nandan Nilekani to Lead Panel

Nandan Nilekani To Head Reform Panel  
The government has given the responsibility of heading the new panel to Nilekani, who will examine and revamp the country’s examination system. 

Nilekani is best known as the architect of Aadhaar and a key architect of India’s digital public infrastructure. Officials said his experience building large-scale secure digital systems would be key to the reforms.

The task force will consist of experts in education, technology, public policy and law enforcement. “The panel has been asked to give recommendations which can be implemented in the exams at the central and state levels," the Prime Minister said.

Transparent and Tech-Driven Exams at the Core 
The committee is mandated to improve the security, efficiency and credibility of examinations. Key areas of review will include digital infrastructure, data security, use of AI for setting and evaluation of question papers and real-time tracking of papers during printing and transportation.

"The panel will also examine ways to stop paper leaks, minimise human error in evaluation and provide quicker grievance redressal for students, officials said." 

'Technology is not just for conducting exams but for building trust in the system,' said a senior Education Ministry official. ### 

Students’ Interests at the Centre
The announcement follows months of protests and public debate over alleged irregularities in national exams, including NEET-UG. Students and parents have been demanding greater safeguards and accountability from the exam-conducting agencies.

The restoration of confidence in the examination process is a priority,” the government said. Its objective is to introduce better technology and tougher protocols to ensure fairness and equal opportunity to all the candidates appearing for competitive and academic tests.

The move was welcomed by educators who said reforms have been long overdue and should focus on both access and integrity.

Experts to shape future of education
The task force is likely to consult universities, coaching bodies, state education boards and student groups before finalising its report. Its recommendations may influence future policy on how exams are administered, monitored and assessed across the country.

The panel’s work is expected to chart the course for a more reliable and digital-first examination ecosystem for millions of students appearing for entrance and recruitment exams every year.