India's National Testing Agency faces audit amid NEET paper leaks

Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has stepped down, prompting scrutiny of the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts a wide range of competitive examinations including the NEET medical entrance test. Repeated paper leaks in the NEET exam have intensified calls for a performance audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).

Before the minister's resignation, the Ministry of Education dismissed 47 NTA officials of various ranks, warning of possible legal action. The government has not disclosed details of an internal inquiry into the leaks, citing fairness to employees. To address systemic issues, the agency announced recruitment for four contractual general‑manager positions and 16 young professionals without UPSC clearance to support them, though criteria for the appointments remain unclear.