NTA: Major overhaul of the exam system; focus on everything from security to technology at the new office—here’s what’s special..

In view of upcoming examinations, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has intensified its preparations. Deepti Gaur Mukerjee, Secretary of the Department of Higher Education, visited the NTA's new office today, October 3, 2026. During the visit, she interacted with senior officials and reviewed the operational arrangements in place. According to the Ministry of Education, the objective of the visit was to assess whether the office facilities and administrative systems were fully prepared for conducting the upcoming examinations.

The new NTA office is located on the fifth floor of the Government of India Press Building at Minto Road, New Delhi. Previously, the agency operated from an office in Okhla. Following the relocation to the new premises, special emphasis is being placed on strengthening security measures for critical and sensitive examination-related tasks.

Why is there such an emphasis on exam security?
The government is working on reforms at various levels to strengthen the processes and security of public examinations. A high-level task force, constituted in August 2026, has been entrusted with the responsibility of reviewing reforms related to the processes, security, and technology of public examinations. It aims to consider measures to make the conduct of examinations more systematic and secure.

What arrangements are in place for confidential information?
Special importance has been given to securing confidential examination-related information at the new NTA office. Separate rooms have been designated for sensitive tasks. Additionally, an "air-gapped" computer system—one that is isolated from the internet—is being utilized. Protocols such as the mandatory deposit of electronic devices by employees are also being implemented. These measures aim to prevent unauthorized access to critical examination-related information.

Who will handle the office security?
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will also play a role in the security arrangements of the new office. The deployment of the security force aims to prevent unauthorized entry into areas where sensitive activities take place and to bolster the overall security of the office. These arrangements are considered significant due to the confidential nature of tasks related to examinations.

What impact will this have on upcoming examinations?
The NTA conducts several major entrance and eligibility examinations across the country. Consequently, the inspection of the new office's facilities and administrative setup is linked to preparations for the upcoming examination cycle. Officials are focusing on conducting the examination process in an organized and secure manner, while leveraging technology more effectively. The aim of strengthening security and administrative arrangements at the new office is to ensure the smooth conduct of examinations.

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