15 of 39 posts in National Testing Agency lie vacant, says Minister of State for Education
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is currently operating with 15 of its 39 sanctioned posts vacant and relies entirely on deputation and outsourced staff. This administrative gap has drawn criticism amid ongoing student protests regarding exam mismanagement and paper leaks.
Why it matters
The lack of a permanent cadre in a critical exam-conducting body raises concerns about institutional stability and accountability in India's education system.
Fifteen of the 39 posts created by the National Testing Agency (NTA) remain vacant, Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar stated in Rajya Sabha.
At present, the Union Education Ministry’s exam-conducting body has 24 employees, all of whom have been appointed on deputation from various institutions, Mr. Majumdar stated in a written reply on Wednesday (July 22, 2026) to a question raised by CPI(M) MP V. Sivadasan.
According to the reply, NTA relies heavily on external hiring, engaging 73 officials on contract — including a general manager of communication, senior advisors, and consultants — alongside 124 outsourced personnel covering roles like data analysis, legal support, and housekeeping.
To strengthen operations, 16 posts (director and joint director levels) have been created under the Central Staffing Scheme, but appointments remain tied to deputation arrangements rather than permanent staff recruitment.
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