Centre strengthens NTA setup with 4 key appointments amid exam reform push

In a significant move amid continued efforts to strengthen the examination system following the NEET controversy and concerns over exam integrity, the Central government has approved the appointment of four senior officers to key positions in the National Testing Agency (NTA).

According to separate orders issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) on Friday (May 16, 2026), the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved the appointments of two Joint Secretaries and two Joint Directors in the NTA under the Department of Higher Education.

The officers appointed as Joint Secretaries are:

1. Anuja Bapat (ISS:1998) – appointed as Joint Secretary, NTA, for a tenure of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
2. Ruchita Vij (IRS-C&IT:2004) – appointed as Joint Secretary, NTA, for a period of five years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

The officers appointed as Joint Directors are:

1. Akash Jain (IRS-IT:2013) – appointed as Joint Director in NTA on a lateral shift basis for a tenure up to December 4, 2029, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
2. Aditya Rajendra Bhoigadhiya (IA&AS:2013) – appointed as Joint Director in NTA under the Central Staffing Scheme on a lateral shift basis for a tenure up to May 16, 2028, or until further orders, whichever is earlier.

The appointments come at a time when the National Testing Agency remains under increased focus after the controversy surrounding the NEET examination. The Centre has been taking several steps aimed at strengthening administrative systems, improving transparency and enhancing institutional mechanisms within the examination body.