Meet Pradeep Singh Kharola: New NTA Chief amid NEET, NET exam row

New Delhi: Amid the growing controversy over exam irregularities, Pradeep Singh Kharola has been appointed as the new Director General (DG) of the National Testing Agency (NTA). This decision comes in the wake of the removal of Subodh Kumar Singh, the previous DG, who has been placed on 'compulsory wait' in the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT).

Exam irregularities lead to major changes

The government has faced backlash over allegations of paper leaks and exam irregularities. As a result, the UGC-NET exam has been canceled, and there are ongoing demands for the cancellation of the NEET-UG exam due to similar allegations. Additionally, on Friday, the government announced the postponement of the CSIR-UGC NET exam.

Pradeep Singh Kharola has been given additional charge of the post of Director General, National Testing Agency (NTA), Ministry of Education. pic.twitter.com/owLKo75ApU

— ANI (@ANI) June 22, 2024

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has stated that the top leadership of the NTA is under scrutiny for these alleged irregularities. However, he denied any paper leak in the CSIR-UGC NET, which was postponed.

Who is Pradeep Singh Kharola?

• Pradeep Singh Kharola, a 1985 batch IAS officer of the Karnataka cadre, brings a wealth of experience to his new role as the DG of NTA. Here are some key points about his career:
• Early Career and IAS Journey: Kharola began his career as an IAS officer in Karnataka, where he held various significant positions.  
• Head of Air India: In November 2017, he was appointed as the head of Air India. During his tenure, the government attempted, but failed, to privatize the airline.
• Civil Aviation Secretary: In 2019, Kharola was appointed as the Civil Aviation Secretary, overseeing the aviation sector during a critical period.
• Chairman of ITPO: Since 2022, he has served as the chairman of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), focusing on trade promotion and exhibitions.
• Kharola has now been given additional charge of the NTA until a regular incumbent is appointed. His vast administrative experience is expected to help navigate the NTA through these challenging times.

Understanding the National Testing Agency (NTA)

The National Testing Agency (NTA) was established in November 2017 under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860. It is an autonomous body responsible for conducting various entrance examinations for admissions to higher educational institutions across India. Some of the major exams conducted by the NTA include NEET, JEE, CTET, GATE, GPAT, GMAT, CAT, UGC-NET, and CSIR-UGC NET.

The NTA is chaired by an eminent educationist appointed by the education ministry. Currently, the agency is chaired by Pradeep Kumar Joshi, a former chairman of the UPSC.

Moving forward with NTA

The appointment of Pradeep Singh Kharola as the new DG of NTA comes at a crucial time. The agency is under intense scrutiny, and there is a pressing need for transparent and fair examination processes. The government’s swift action in appointing a seasoned administrator like Kharola indicates a strong commitment to addressing the issues and restoring faith in the examination system.