Overview
- The NTA issued two Expressions of Interest on Thursday, Nov 12, inviting applications to create a standing, pre-verified pool of independent observers and to shortlist institutions as empanelled exam centres.
- Observer applications are sought in three defined categories: retired central and state government officers, retired armed forces and paramilitary personnel, and retired or serving government school and college teachers and professors.
- For computer‑based tests the EOI sets a technical minimum of 285 fully functional workstations per shift with at least four separate labs, while pen‑and‑paper sites must offer 250 seats per shift across at least six halls, with smaller centres considered only in limited-supply locations.
- Overseas test centres will normally get observers who are Indian nationals living locally, including serving or retired officials of Indian missions and former Ministry of External Affairs officers, to maintain consistent oversight abroad.
- The administrative move follows the NEET‑UG paper leak and student protests earlier this year and is meant to shore up on‑site monitoring quickly while the Nilekani‑led task force continues to develop broader, longer-term reforms.