Who is Pradeep Singh Kharola, the newly appointed NTA Director General?

NEW DELHI: In a move aimed at restoring public trust, the Union government has appointed Pradeep Singh Kharola, a retired IAS officer, as the new Director General of the National Testing Agency (NTA). This comes amidst a period of intense scrutiny for the NTA, following allegations of irregularities in the conduct of high-stakes exams like NEET UG and UGC NET.
Kharola, a 1985-batch IAS officer from the Karnataka cadre, brings a wealth of experience to the table.Having graduated with a mechanical engineering degree from Indore University, his career boasts diverse roles across various government departments. He is known for his expertise in urban governance, public transport, and policy-making.
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One of Kharola’s notable achievements was turning around the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), a public bus service, from incurring losses to becoming profitable in the year 2000. This turnaround showcased his ability to navigate complex challenges and achieve positive results. His dedication to public service was further recognized by the National Award for e-governance in 2012 and the Prime Minister’s Outstanding Public Administration Award in 2013.
Key Details of IAS Pradeep Singh Kharola

Prior to his appointment at the NTA, Kharola served as the Chairman and Managing Director of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO). He has also held prominent positions like Secretary to the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and Joint Secretary of the National Administrative Reform Commission.
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Kharola’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for the NTA. The agency has been under fire following allegations of paper leaks and questionable marking practices in the NEET UG exam. This led to a re-test for affected students and a loss of confidence in the entire examination process. The postponement of NEET PG and UGC NET exams further highlighted the need for immediate reforms.
The government hopes that Kharola’s vast experience and proven track record will be instrumental in restoring the NTA’s credibility. His expertise in public administration and crisis management is expected to play a crucial role in addressing the current challenges. A key focus for Kharola will be to implement stricter security measures to prevent future paper leaks and ensure fair and transparent examinations.
Additionally, he is likely to oversee a review of the current testing procedures and marking schemes to eliminate any discrepancies. The government has also established a seven-member committee to evaluate the functioning of the NTA and suggest necessary reforms. Kharola’s leadership will be crucial in working with this committee to implement effective changes that enhance transparency and accountability within the agency.
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The success of Pradeep Singh Kharola’s stewardship of the NTA will be measured by his ability to regain public trust in the organization. By upholding transparency, ensuring fair testing procedures, and implementing robust security measures, he can pave the way for a brighter future for India’s competitive examinations.