The National Testing Agency (NTA), operational since 2017, will undergo significant restructuring in 2025. This move follows a year of controversies, particularly the NEET-UG paper leak in 2024, which exposed loopholes in examination management.
The reforms, spearheaded by a seven-member panel led by Dr. K. Radhakrishnan, include:
- Narrowed Focus: NTA will exclusively manage entrance exams for admissions, discontinuing its involvement in recruitment tests.
- DIGI-EXAM System: Inspired by DIGI-YATRA, this system introduces multi-level biometric verification to ensure exam integrity.
- Computer-Adaptive Testing: A transition towards tech-driven assessments is planned for enhanced accuracy.
A three-member steering committee, headed by Dr. Radhakrishnan, will oversee the implementation of these recommendations.
Expansion of Quality Schooling
The government has sanctioned ₹8,232 crore over eight years to establish 85 Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and 28 Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVs), benefiting over 85,000 students. These institutions, known for their high-quality education, are set to address the growing demand for accessible schooling options.
Addressing the Coaching Centre Dependency
Efforts to reduce students’ reliance on coaching centres are underway, with a focus on adopting a more holistic approach to school education. The government aims to regulate the proliferation of these centres while enhancing classroom learning experiences.
Affordable and Accessible NCERT Textbooks
In a move to ease the financial burden on parents, NCERT will reduce textbook prices for certain classes in 2025. Additionally, NCERT plans to:
- Increase Production: Expand its annual printing capacity from 5 crore to 15 crore books.
- Home Delivery: Collaborate with e-commerce giants Flipkart and Amazon to provide doorstep delivery at no extra cost.
- New Curriculum: Update textbooks for classes 9-12 based on the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), set for release in the 2026-27 academic session.
Progress on National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
Marking the fifth year of NEP 2020, 2025 will see increased efforts to:
- Globalize Indian Education: Indian universities will open campuses in Africa and other regions.
- Transform India as an Educational Hub: NEP implementation will focus on fostering innovation, inclusivity, and quality education.
Conclusion
2025 promises transformative changes in India’s education sector, addressing systemic issues while enhancing accessibility, affordability, and quality. These reforms aim to position India as a global leader in education.
