India’s Exam System in Crisis

India’s Exam System in Crisis

Context: The recent issues with the NEET exam and the cancellation of the National Eligibility Test (NET) by the National Testing Agency (NTA) eroded public trust in the examination system.

The Rationale Behind NEET

• It aimed to standardize the educational competence of students entering medical colleges.
• It sought to reduce the number of entrance examinations from an estimated 46 to a single test.
• It was designed to eliminate the practice of capitation fees in private medical colleges by reducing their discretion in the admissions process.

 Implementation Challenges

• India’s non-uniform school system disadvantages non-CBSE students, as the NEET syllabus is based on the more rigorous CBSE curriculum.
• Poor governance and a lack of focus on critical thinking have led to a failing school system, placing the burden of NEET preparation on coaching institutes instead of schools.
• NEET has fueled a multi-billion dollar coaching industry, exacerbating inequality.
• The National Testing Agency (NTA) was created to centralize NEET, but it has raised concerns about federal overreach and disregard for state educational policies. E.g. Tamil Nadu.

Way Forward

• The current NEET policy necessitates a comprehensive review
• An all-party committee could address the concerns of various stakeholders and create a system that accommodates regional disparities.
• Returning some control over medical school admissions to states and universities.
• Alternatives like a pre-medical year or regional exams could provide a more balanced approach. 

A multi-pronged approach is needed to address the NEET crisis

• Improving the quality of schooling across India is essential to reduce dependence on coaching institutes.
• A balance needs to be struck between centralised oversight and state autonomy for exams.
• All stakeholders, including the central government, state governments, and educational institutions, must be held accountable for upholding fair practices.
• The judiciary can play a role in setting guidelines and ensuring the government takes action.