News for 'exam reform'

Parliamentary panel flags recurring exam irregularities, seeks reforms

Parliamentary panel flags recurring exam irregularities, seeks reforms

Rediff.com16 Jun 2026

A parliamentary committee has voiced concerns over ongoing examination irregularities despite government measures, recommending the Ministry of Education publish a time-bound roadmap for reforms. The panel also urged a nationwide blacklist of firms involved in exam processes and suggested utilising the National Testing Agency's financial surplus to enhance its capabilities.

Strike at exam paper mafia, not students, Rahul tells Modi

Strike at exam paper mafia, not students, Rahul tells Modi

Rediff.com17 Jun 2026

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticised the Indian government's temporary restriction on Telegram ahead of the NEET-UG re-examination, calling it a 'new trick' that punishes students instead of tackling the root cause of paper leaks. He highlighted the suicides of two students, Umesh and Riya, linking their deaths to the 'broken, corrupt system' and the government's alleged failure to protect students from exam mismanagement.

Parliamentary panel to review NEET paper leak, NTA reforms

Parliamentary panel to review NEET paper leak, NTA reforms

Rediff.com18 May 2026

A parliamentary panel has decided to review the implementation of reforms in the National Testing Agency (NTA) as well as the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak case and has summoned NTA Chairperson Pradeep Kumar Joshi and other bureaucrats for deliberations.

Pradhan, Rahul Gandhi engage in public spat over CBSE exam row

Pradhan, Rahul Gandhi engage in public spat over CBSE exam row

Rediff.com28 May 2026

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Rahul Gandhi have engaged in a public dispute over alleged irregularities in the CBSE exam system, with Gandhi demanding an independent probe and Pradhan accusing Gandhi of politicising the issue.

CBSE Announces Class 10 Second Board Exam Dates

CBSE Announces Class 10 Second Board Exam Dates

Rediff.com23 Apr 2026

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released the schedule for the second board examinations for Class 10, which will take place from May 15 to May 21. The exams are optional and offer students a chance to improve their scores or clear failed subjects.

NEET aspirants lose faith in NTA after leak; seek AIIMS to conduct exam

NEET aspirants lose faith in NTA after leak; seek AIIMS to conduct exam

Rediff.com13 May 2026

The cancellation of NEET-UG 2026 due to alleged paper leaks has led to widespread outrage among aspirants, who are questioning the competence of the National Testing Agency (NTA) and demanding that AIIMS-Delhi conduct the medical entrance exam.

NEET-UG Re-Exam On June 21; Computer-Based Test From 2027

NEET-UG Re-Exam On June 21; Computer-Based Test From 2027

Rediff.com15 May 2026

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan announced the NEET-UG re-examination will be held on June 21, with plans to transition to a computer-based test from next year. This decision follows allegations of irregularities in the original exam, prompting strict action and a commitment to ensuring fairness for students.

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

NEET-UG re-exam on June 21; computer-based test from next year: Pradhan

Rediff.com16 May 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced that the NEET-UG medical entrance exam, which was cancelled due to alleged irregularities, will be re-conducted on June 21.

CJP to release education manifesto as part of Pune protest, Wangchuk to join

CJP to release education manifesto as part of Pune protest, Wangchuk to join

Rediff.com11 Jun 2026

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) has launched a nationwide protest from Pune, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan over alleged exam irregularities and delays. Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk is also participating in the peaceful demonstration.

Relief for Class 7, 8, 9 as CBSE relaxes 3-language policy

Relief for Class 7, 8, 9 as CBSE relaxes 3-language policy

Rediff.com1 days ago

The CBSE has issued revised guidelines for its three-language policy, granting a one-time exemption to current Class 10 students from studying three languages. Class 9 students will still study three languages but can include two foreign languages and one Indian language, a significant shift from earlier mandates.

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Wangchuk's health deteriorates as CJP protest at Jantar Mantar enters 11th day

Rediff.com39 minutes ago

The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) and activist Sonam Wangchuk's protest at Jantar Mantar has entered its eleventh day, with Wangchuk's health deteriorating due to a hunger strike. Protesters allege heavy police deployment and restrictions, demanding accountability for examination irregularities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

Dipke says Pradhan's exit 'bare minimum' as NEET aspirants join CJP stir

Dipke says Pradhan's exit 'bare minimum' as NEET aspirants join CJP stir

Rediff.com7 days ago

The Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) is continuing its protest at Jantar Mantar for the third day, demanding accountability for alleged examination irregularities and the May 3 NEET paper leak. CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke has called for the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and compensation for affected families, with farmer unions expected to join the ongoing agitation.

What You Must Know About NEET (UG) Retest

What You Must Know About NEET (UG) Retest

Rediff.com13 Jun 2026

The NTA has increased the rough-work space available to candidates in the question-paper booklet. Students will now receive four rough-work pages instead of two, allowing more space for calculations, diagrams, and other workings during the examination.

Cockroach party steals spotlight at INDIA bloc meet; leaders divided

Cockroach party steals spotlight at INDIA bloc meet; leaders divided

Rediff.com9 Jun 2026

The INDIA bloc meeting saw discussions about the emerging youth-led Cockroach Janata Party (CJP), with leaders holding divergent views on its intent and significance. While some expressed concerns about its political motives, many saw it as a healthy sign of youth dissent against the system, prompting calls for engagement and attention to the issues raised.

Parl panel grills NTA officials over NEET-UG paper leak

Parl panel grills NTA officials over NEET-UG paper leak

Rediff.com21 May 2026

Members of Parliament questioned top National Testing Agency (NTA) officials about the NEET-UG paper leak, with the NTA stating the CBI is investigating the matter. The parliamentary panel also discussed measures to prevent future leaks and reforms within the NTA.

Worried Children, stressed parents join 'Cockroach' protest

Worried Children, stressed parents join 'Cockroach' protest

Rediff.com6 Jun 2026

Students, college-goers, competitive exam aspirants, and parents gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi for a protest organised by supporters of the Cockroach Janta Party, expressing deep concerns over recurring examination controversies, result uncertainties, and a perceived lack of accountability within the education system.

'Sad that they have not learnt their lessons': SC raps NTA over NEET leak

'Sad that they have not learnt their lessons': SC raps NTA over NEET leak

Rediff.com25 May 2026

The Supreme Court on Monday said it was sad that National Testing Agency has not learn lessons from the earlier NEET paper leak as it sought response from the Centre, NTA and Central Bureau of Investigation on pleas for replacement of the testing agency with a robust and autonomous body to conduct the medical entrance exam.

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Education Ministry dismisses concerns over CBSE 'On Screen Marking'

Rediff.com17 May 2026

The Ministry of Education has dismissed concerns about On-Screen Marking (OSM) affecting students' scores in CBSE class 12 exams and announced a reduction in revaluation and answer sheet verification charges to ease student anxiety.

CBSE on 2-exam policy: Mandatory to appear in 1st boards

CBSE on 2-exam policy: Mandatory to appear in 1st boards

Rediff.com16 Feb 2026

The clarification by board comes after it received a few requests stating that, because of some reasons, Class 10 students will not be able to appear in the first board exam, hence should be allowed to appear in second board exam.

NEET Aspirant's Death: Political Leaders Demand Accountability

NEET Aspirant's Death: Political Leaders Demand Accountability

Rediff.com15 May 2026

The suicide of a NEET aspirant in Uttar Pradesh, allegedly due to the cancellation of the medical entrance exam, has triggered strong reactions from opposition leaders who are demanding accountability and compensation for the family.

NEET-UG to swtich to computer mode from next year: NTA to SC

NEET-UG to swtich to computer mode from next year: NTA to SC

Rediff.com29 May 2026

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has informed the Supreme Court that the NEET-UG exam will transition to a computer-based test (CBT) mode from next year, following consultations with the Centre and recommendations from a high-level committee.

SC allows Indore student barred over meme to write Class 10 exam

SC allows Indore student barred over meme to write Class 10 exam

Rediff.com13 Feb 2026

The Supreme Court has allowed a minor boy, rusticated from an Indore school for circulating an objectionable meme, to appear for his Class 10 examination, directing the CISCE to issue an admit card.

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

India Is Lucky To Have Both Nehru And Modi

Rediff.com10 Jun 2026

If one has to compare the tenures of the two prime ministers one must credit Nehru with laying the foundations on which Modi is building a grand edifice, asserts Colonel Anil A Athale (retd).

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

NEET paper leak: CBI arrests 5; TN CM Vijay calls for abolishing test

Rediff.com14 May 2026

The CBI has arrested five individuals and conducted searches across India in connection with the NEET UG paper leak case. Protests have intensified, and calls for the Education Minister's resignation have grown louder. Political parties are trading blame, and the Supreme Court is considering a plea for an overhaul of the National Testing Agency.

Class 12 students allege answer sheet mismatch, CBSE begins probe

Class 12 students allege answer sheet mismatch, CBSE begins probe

Rediff.com26 May 2026

The CBSE has taken up on 'top priority' the cases related to alleged mismatched answer sheets and other concerns faced by students in the re-evaluation process, a source in the board said.

Entrance Exams Destroy Talent: Agree?

Entrance Exams Destroy Talent: Agree?

Rediff.com25 Sep 2025

'India kills its own talent before the world even gets to see it'

AI, 3-Language Rule in CBSE Curriculum

AI, 3-Language Rule in CBSE Curriculum

Rediff.com3 Apr 2026

Art education, physical education and wellbeing, vocational education and interdisciplinary studies will be compulsory.

Nitish Kumar's Education Reforms: Top Grades Then Slide

Nitish Kumar's Education Reforms: Top Grades Then Slide

Rediff.com3 Nov 2025

The story of Bihar's educational reform is a lesson for all reforms done halfway.

NEET-EWS Quota: How A 19 Yr Old Won A Supreme Court Case

NEET-EWS Quota: How A 19 Yr Old Won A Supreme Court Case

Rediff.com23 Feb 2026

'My argument was straightforward: If the Constitution allows this reservation and SC/ST and OBC candidates are already getting reservation in private institutions -- backed by Constitution Bench orders -- then not extending the same to EWS candidates directly violates the 103rd Amendment and Article 14, which guarantees the right to equality.'

Can India Solve The Air Pollution Problem?

Can India Solve The Air Pollution Problem?

Rediff.com5 Jan 2026

Mundane as it may seem, this is in some ways a metaphor for the challenges facing the nation, argue Arvind Subramanian and Devesh Kapur in their new book, A Sixth Of Humanity.

6 TOEFL Changes: How It Will Help You Perform Better

6 TOEFL Changes: How It Will Help You Perform Better

Rediff.com3 Oct 2025

ETS introduces adaptive TOEFL, fairness protocols and faster scores to ease global students' stress and test anxiety.

Education: Sibal's push for exam reforms, cheapest tablet PC

Education: Sibal's push for exam reforms, cheapest tablet PC

Rediff.com2 Jan 2012

HRD Minister Kapil Sibal's unsuccessful efforts to get key legislations on reforms in higher education passed, his push for examination reforms, rise in IIT tuition fees and launch of world's cheapest tablet PC marked the year 2011 in the education sector.

Why wasn't NEET-UG exam scrapped?: SC explains

Why wasn't NEET-UG exam scrapped?: SC explains

Rediff.com2 Aug 2024

The top court said since the remit of the panel has been expanded, the committee would submit its report by September 30 on various measures to rectify deficiencies in the examination system.

He should create 'Ministry of Insults': Priyanka's dig at Modi

He should create 'Ministry of Insults': Priyanka's dig at Modi

Rediff.com3 Nov 2025

Priyanka accused the prime minister of "speaking on unnecessary issues" while staying silent on corruption, unemployment and the alleged misrule under the NDA government in Bihar.

'My God, The Number Of Meetings We Had On GST!'

'My God, The Number Of Meetings We Had On GST!'

Rediff.com22 Sep 2025

'It was like rigorously preparing for a solid, good exam...' 'I don't know what marks I will get, but I felt the rigorous preparation of an exam.' 'You may sweat, but I feel rejuvenated.'

'We Have To Blame Ourselves, Not Macaulay'

'We Have To Blame Ourselves, Not Macaulay'

Rediff.com27 Nov 2025

'We kept importing educational models from outside that had no connection to our cultural and intellectual strengths.'

New Visa Rules: Tough Times Ahead For UK-Bound Indian Grads

New Visa Rules: Tough Times Ahead For UK-Bound Indian Grads

Rediff.com15 Oct 2025

Indian graduates face tougher English tests, shorter post-study stays, higher costs and stricter settlement rules as Britain rolls out sweeping immigration reforms.

Gandhi Called Him 'Father Of The Nation'

Gandhi Called Him 'Father Of The Nation'

Rediff.com5 Sep 2025

On his 200th birth anniversary, Utkarsh Mishra traces the life, thought, and legacy of Dadabhai Naoroji, the Grand Old Man of India.

Panel headed by former ISRO chief to oversee NTA reforms

Panel headed by former ISRO chief to oversee NTA reforms

Rediff.com22 Jun 2024

Amid a row over irregularities in competitive exams National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) and National Eligibility Test (NET), the education ministry on Saturday notified a seven-member panel headed by former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chief K Radhakrishnan to ensure transparent, smooth and fair conduct of examinations through the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Govt directs CBSE to plan twice-a-year board exams from 2025

Govt directs CBSE to plan twice-a-year board exams from 2025

Rediff.com26 Apr 2024

The ministry and the Central Board of Secondary Education will hold consultations with school principals next month for conducting board exams twice a year, the sources said.