The idea of switching NEET to a computer-based test (CBT) mode has been deliberated upon several times before. However, the push for reforms gained momentum following a paper leak controversy earlier this year.Under scrutiny for alleged irregularities in NEET and PhD entrance examinations, the Centre had set up a panel in July to ensure transparent, smooth, and fair conduct of exams by the NTA.The high-level panel, headed by former ISRO Chief R Radhakrishnan, has recommended multi-stage testing for NEET-UG as a viable possibility. “An acceptable framework with thresholds, test objectives for scoring and ranking at each stage, and the number of attempts, etc., may be evolved,” the panel stated in its report.While NEET has faced allegations of irregularities, including paper leaks, the University Grants Commission’s National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) was cancelled earlier this year after the ministry received inputs suggesting the exam’s integrity had been compromised. Both incidents are currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).Two other examinations – CSIR-UGC NET and NEET-PG – were also cancelled as a precautionary measure.The panel, which includes former AIIMS Delhi director Randeep Guleria, Central University of Hyderabad Vice-Chancellor B J Rao, and IIT Madras Professor Emeritus K Ramamurthy, was tasked with reviewing security protocols related to exam processes and making recommendations to enhance their robustness.Other members of the panel include PeopleStrong co-founder and Karmayogi Bharat board member Pankaj Bansal, IIT Delhi Dean of Student Affairs Aditya Mittal, and Ministry of Education Joint Secretary Govind Jaiswal. Two IIT Kanpur academicians, Professor Amey Karkare and Assistant Professor Debapriya Roy, are also part of the committee.
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