Union minister Pralhad Joshi, who was recently given the additional portfolio of education ministry, on Sunday held his first meeting with officials on “matters concerning” the National Testing Agency (NTA) and discussed steps for stronger mechanism, streamlines processes, and better student support.
What Happened
Recently, the testing body has faced criticism over the alleged NEET-UG exam 2026 paper leak in May and is currently facing students’ complaints about over a month delays in releasing provisional answer keys for UGC-NET June 2026 session. Pralhad Joshi, who serves as minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution; and new and renewable energy, was appointed as education minister after Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from the post on July 25. Pradhan resigned from his post following 36-days Cockroach Janta Party-led student protests in Delhi’s Jantar Mantar, demanding his ouster over the NEET paper leak controversy.
“Our focus remains on building a robust, transparent and credible examination ecosystem that serves the aspirations of every student,” he said. When asked whether the issue of delay in UGC-NET exam’s answer keys and results was discussed, a senior NTA official told HT, “No. “Whatever is discussed in the meeting is mentioned in the [minister’s] tweet,” the official said, requesting anonymity.
