CoinDesk Report:
Source: Global Times
An article dated July 1 from India’s “Indian Express” addresses the issue of tackling exam leaks, emphasizing the need for comprehensive planning where artificial intelligence and blockchain technology are merely tools.
Long before the 18th People’s Assembly elections and the inauguration of the new government, controversy erupted over two major entrance exams hosted by India’s National Testing Agency (NTA): the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) for selecting candidates into undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs in public and private medical colleges, and the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) for assistant professorship and junior research fellowship qualifications, as well as entry into some doctoral programs.
Exam malpractice casts a shadow
The NEET exam on May 5 faced accusations of unfair scoring, cheating, and impersonation. The NET exam on June 18 had its results declared invalid the next day due to allegations of leaked questions being sold on the dark web and encrypted social platforms 48 hours before the exam.
These issues from both exams have sparked widespread social concern, deeply worrying students and parents alike. Despite leadership changes within the organization responsible, the NTA, as the specialized agency for entrance exams, remains under scrutiny.
Led by former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation and Chairman of the Board of Governors at IIT Kanpur, K. Radhakrishnan, a team of seven experts is dedicated to advising on reforms to India’s exam processes, optimizing data security protocols, NTA’s structure, and functional planning.
The Central Bureau of Investigation is conducting an inquiry into the case. These measures aim to pave the way for India’s education system, but regaining the trust of the younger generation remains a formidable challenge for all parties involved.
Source of leaks not limited to dark web
Today, technological means are integral to the exam ecosystem. Since its establishment in 2017, NTA has successfully conducted various exams like the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and Common Management Admission Test (CMAT). NEET-UG employs optical mark recognition for independent seating and filling of answer sheets. NET, which has been computer-based since 2018, returned to hand-marked answer sheets this year. Despite improvements brought by NTA to India’s exam system, challenges like technical faults, limited seats, standardization, secure transport, and storage of test papers persist.
Criminal elements have leaked exam papers before the advent of technological tools, and today, organized crime groups and vested interests widely utilize the dark web and social media platforms, exacerbating their audacity. However, this does not mean the dark web is the sole cause of exam leaks; it serves as a tool enhancing the efficiency of information leaks. The demand for leaked papers does not originate solely from the dark web, overshadowing systemic issues. Likewise, claims of NTA website hacking are often exaggerated.
Comprehensive planning needed to combat leaks
Authorities should explore comprehensive, multi-tiered solutions utilizing cutting-edge technologies to establish a robust exam system. For instance, blockchain technology can secure, manage, prevent tampering, and trace access to question banks. Biometric recognition technologies like fingerprints, facial recognition, iris scanning, and live detection can effectively counter cheating and illegal behavior. Adaptive testing can tailor exams for each candidate, reducing malpractice. Decentralized paper delivery systems can minimize reliance on central servers, reducing cyber attack risks. AI-based grading models can detect cheating and collusion. Blockchain-based score publishing ensures transparency and prevents unauthorized score alterations.
To effectively combat exam leaks, comprehensive planning is necessary, including but not limited to intensifying anti-corruption efforts, optimizing security protocols, reforming the education system to alleviate exam pressure, and addressing societal wealth gaps that exacerbate unfairness. India’s immediate priority is restoring confidence in the exam system, with technology and institutional implementation providing effective support. (Translated by Hua Zexun)
