India appoints Nandan Nilekani to lead exam paper leak reforms

The Indian government, confronting repeated examination paper leaks that have eroded public confidence, has appointed technocrat Nandan Nilekani—known for building the Aadhaar system—to head a task force on examination reforms. The move signals a shift toward technocratic solutions rather than solely political or punitive measures.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that Parliament passed the Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Amendment Bill, 2026, introducing stricter punishments for paper‑leak gangs. The legislation creates fast‑track courts, a dedicated task force and calls for extensive use of technology, aiming to restore a trusted, fair examination system for millions of Indian students.