NTA overhaul 2026 is bringing the agency’s examination system under closer scrutiny after around 600 experts were removed from its wider examination network. The development has raised questions about how the National Testing Agency manages question-paper preparation and other examination processes. NTA has 39 sanctioned permanent posts, of which 24 were occupied according to recent government data. Its workforce is supplemented by contractual, outsourced and external personnel. The Centre’s data also lists 73 contractual and 124 outsourced personnel. The 600 experts being replaced are understood to be part of NTA’s broader examination expert pool rather than its permanent staff. They can be involved in question-paper development, scrutiny and related examination functions. The overhaul also includes a four-tier question-paper review system. For students appearing for major exams such as JEE Main, NEET UG, CUET and UGC-NET, the key issue will be whether the new system improves accuracy, transparency and accountability.
NTA Overhaul 2026: Why 600 Experts Are Being Replaced
