NTA takes AICTE help to map facilities for setting up testing centres
The National Testing Agency (NTA) is collaborating with the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to identify government infrastructure suitable for establishing secure computer-based testing centers. This initiative aims to transition major national exams, including NEET, to an online format to improve security and prevent paper leaks.
Why it matters
The shift to computer-based testing is a direct response to recent high-profile examination controversies and aims to restore public trust in India's national testing system.
The National Testing Agency (NTA) has sought the help of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to map IT infrastructure and vacant spaces in government institutions to establish standard testing centres (STCs). These centres will facilitate computer-based testing (CBT) for NTA examinations, including the high-stakes National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
The NTA plans to shift NEET to CBT mode next year. Nearly 22 lakh students appeared for the NEET-UG 2026, which was held in a pen-and-paper format. The examination became embroiled in a paper leak controversy and had to be re-conducted, leading to widespread protests and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Following the NTA’s request, the AICTE wrote to Vice-Chancellors of government-run technical universities and heads of AICTE-approved government institutes on August 31 to assess their infrastructure.
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