The Coaching Federation of India (CFI), representing coaching institutions nationwide, has put forward several recommendations to the Centre amid controversies over exam irregularities, including paper leaks.

Among its suggestions, the CFI proposed reducing the outsourcing of exam-related tasks by the National Testing Agency (NTA), establishing an education task force and a helpline to report irregularities, and scheduling competitive exams at least twice a year after board exams.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the portrayal of the coaching industry as a “mafia,” the federation criticized using such labels for the actions of a few and denounced educational institutions exploiting paper leaks for publicity or political gain.

The CFI emphasized the mental stress faced by students amid uncertainties over exams like NEET, cautioning against politicizing these issues. It called for respecting the judicial process regarding the reconduction of exams like NEET, currently under court scrutiny.

Pramod Maheshwari, MD of Career Point, Kota, highlighted the voluntary nature of coaching and its role in producing skilled professionals. He urged the government to recognize coaching institutions, allocate land for coaching parks, and integrate them into the educational ecosystem.

Additionally, the CFI recommended adopting a uniform syllabus across state boards aligned with entrance exams like CUET, JEE, and NEET. It proposed scheduling JEE Main exams in April and May after board exams to alleviate student pressure.

Addressing irregularities linked to outsourcing, the federation suggested NTA should have its own printing and transportation facilities, and sufficient internal workforce to manage examinations effectively.

The CFI also advocated conducting exams online where feasible, restructuring NTA operations, and ensuring local oversight to minimize the risk of paper leaks.

The Centre recently replaced NTA DG Subodh Singh and established a high-level panel to enhance exam transparency and fairness. Ongoing investigations into NEET and UGC-NET irregularities underscore the need for robust examination management.

The committee has invited feedback from stakeholders, including students and parents, until July 7 through the MyGov platform.

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