Archive · 30 Sep 2026
SBI Research Calls for Separate Law Governing NTA
The National Testing Agency, or NTA, runs large exams such as JEE Main and NEET UG.
It has conducted more than 240 exams for over 5.4 crore candidates since 2018.
NTA is currently a registered society rather than an agency created by a special law.
SBI Research says clearer rules could help define what NTA is responsible for.
It suggests creating a separate law for NTA.
It also recommends an expert board to oversee exams and vendors.
A permanent team would handle more important work inside NTA instead of outsourcing so much of it.
A Candidate Charter would explain how students can challenge problems and seek corrections.
SBI Research has proposed a separate law defining the National Testing Agency’s powers, duties and accountability.
The National Testing Agency conducted more than 240 examinations involving over 5.4 crore candidates by July 2024.
The agency is currently a registered society, without a dedicated law passed by Parliament governing its functions.
The recommendations include an independent expert board, a permanent professional workforce and stronger vendor oversight.
A proposed Candidate Charter would set procedures and timelines for appeals, score corrections, postponements, re-tests and accessibility problems.
- Who
- SBI Research proposed reforms for the National Testing Agency, which conducts major entrance examinations.
- What
- The proposal calls for a separate NTA law, independent oversight, stronger internal expertise and clearer candidate grievance procedures.
- When
- The recommendations were made after NTA data reviewed through July 2024; NTA was established in 2018.
- Where
- The reforms concern India’s National Testing Agency and its nationwide examination system.
- Why
- They aim to address scrutiny over examination security, paper leaks, technology, outsourcing, governance and accountability.
- NTA established
- 2018
- Examinations conducted
- More than 240 by July 2024
- Candidates covered
- Over 5.4 crore
- Current legal status
- Registered society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860
- Personnel disclosed in July 2024
- 171 of 194 were contractual or outsourced, about 88%
- Proposed oversight
- An NTA Board of independent experts and a separate Standards and Appeals Body
- Proposed candidate protection
- A Candidate Charter covering challenges, corrections, postponements, re-tests and accessibility failures