‘To prevent leaks, generate exam papers at last minute’, Pg12

Key Highlights:

• Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of Infosys, proposed generating exam papers at the last minute to combat question paper leaks.
• His suggestions include utilizing a massive question bank and potentially Artificial Intelligence (AI) for spontaneous paper generation.
• This reform would require a transition from traditional pen-and-paper exams to Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
• Nilekani chairs a six-member high-powered task force on exam reforms, established by the Union government on July 26, 2026.
• The task force was constituted following widespread concerns over exam irregularities, including the NEET-UG paper leak.

Detailed Insights:

• The core issue addressed by the proposal is the economic incentive for selling leaked question papers, which would be removed if papers are generated just before the exam.
• The high-powered task force on exam reforms is actively studying the feasibility of implementing CBT for all public examinations across the country.
• Expanding the existing network of CBT locations, currently around 1.5 lakh, is a critical requirement for this transition.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the formation of the task force to strengthen the security, design, and governance of public examinations.
• The task force is expected to submit its recommendations within three months of its formation, aiming to provide systemic solutions to enhance exam credibility.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Computer-Based Test (CBT): An examination format where candidates answer questions using a computer, often in a secure, proctored environment.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): The development of computer systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as learning and problem-solving.
• Question Bank: A comprehensive repository of questions from which various examination papers can be dynamically created.
• High-powered task force on exam reforms: A government-appointed committee with a broad mandate to recommend significant changes to improve the integrity and security of national examination systems.