PM Modi appoints Nandan Nilekani to head high‑powered task force for exam reforms

On Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to Instagram – and later Twitter – to reveal that a high‑powered task force on examination reforms has been set up. The centerpiece of this effort is none other than Infosys chairman and former UIDAI chief Nandan Nilekani, who will steer the group as its head.

Modi, speaking in a brief video, said the country already has fast‑track courts and is drafting tougher legislation, but “our examination system must be reliable, transparent and make the maximum use of technology.” He hinted that the new body will push for structural changes in the National Testing Agency (NTA), aiming to seal the cracks that have allowed paper leaks in exams like NEET.

The Nilekani‑led panel brings together a eclectic mix of veterans: former ISRO chief S Somanath, ex‑Intelligence Bureau director Tapan Deka, IIT Madras director V Kamakoti, former education secretary Anita Karwal, and logistics specialist Amrit Lal Meena. Their mandate covers technology, security, education policy and administration, all with the goal of creating a modern, tamper‑proof testing ecosystem.

These moves come on the heels of a turbulent week for the education ministry. Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan quit after massive street protests – organized by the so‑called Cockroach Janta Party – over NEET paper leaks that sparked panic and even student deaths. In the wake of his resignation, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi was handed the additional charge of the education portfolio and has pledged a quick review of the ministry’s functioning.

Modi also used the occasion to stress the importance of a strong social‑media presence for his cabinet. He urged every minister to be active on Instagram, not just posting updates but actually engaging with young citizens. The Prime Minister’s own Instagram reel, condemning the NEET leaks, racked up over a million new followers in a matter of hours, showing just how much the youth are watching.

While the protests have been called off after talks between the CJP leaders and senior BJP figures, the pressure on the government to deliver a bullet‑proof exam system remains intense. Nilekani’s task force is expected to submit its recommendations within months, with the hope that future exams will be conducted without the specter of leaks haunting students across the nation.