Congress slams PM Modi's exam reforms task force as image repair
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a high-powered task force for examination reforms amid ongoing irregularities in NEET-UG and other exams. The Congress party criticized the move as an attempt to repair the PM's image, noting that previous recommendations remain unimplemented.
Background
In June 2024, after NEET-UG irregularities, the government formed a high-level expert committee chaired by former ISRO chairman Dr. K. Radhakrishnan to ensure transparent exam conduct. The committee made 101 recommendations, but they have not been fully implemented. In July 2026, after fresh irregularities, a new high-level task force was announced.
Key facts
PM Modi announced a high-powered task force for examination reforms on July 26, 2026.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh called it a 'high-powered attempt' to repair the PM's 'irreparably tarnished image'.
The Radhakrishnan committee (formed June 2024) made 101 recommendations, yet to be fully implemented.
Between 2024 and 2026, the government did not appoint a full-time director general for the National Testing Agency (NTA).
The NEET-UG question paper leak controversy affected over 22 lakh aspirants.
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid student protests; Union Minister Pralhad Joshi given additional charge of the Ministry.
The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) ended its indefinite sit-in at Jantar Mantar after Pradhan's resignation.
The task force aims to establish a foolproof examination system.
Prelims pointers
- National Testing Agency (NTA)
- NEET-UG
- Radhakrishnan Committee (2024)
- Cockroach Janta Party (CJP)
- Jantar Mantar protest
- Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
- Pralhad Joshi (additional charge of Education Ministry)
Mains angles
- GS2: Issues relating to development and management of social sector/services relating to education
- GS2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors
- GS4: Ethics in public administration - accountability and transparency in examination systems