1 week ago

NTA Introduces Four-Stage Vetting For Exam Paper Setters

The National Testing Agency prepares exams using experts who help write questions.

It has removed about 600 experts from its existing panel.

Now, new experts must pass four checks before they can set questions.

First, the agency checks their documents and qualifications.

Next, subject committees test whether they know their subject well.

The agency then checks their education, work history, honesty declarations and possible conflicts of interest.

Experts who pass all the checks can join the panel for three years.

Their appointment can end early if they break the rules.

The changes are part of an effort to make major exams more reliable after recent controversies.

Key facts

Experts removed: Around 600 experts were dropped from the NTA panel.
Vetting stages: Eligibility and document checks, subject assessment, background verification, and final empanelment.
Empanelment period: Three years, subject to satisfactory performance and continued compliance.
Required records: Applicants must provide identity, education and employment details, a No Objection Certificate, and confidentiality and conflict-of-interest declarations.
Expert assignment: Empanelment will be linked to specific subjects, examination levels and types of examination work.
Typical involvement: Experts generally work on question-paper preparation for seven to 15 days.
Payment: Experts are paid around Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000 a year for their work.

NDTV · 1 week ago