New Delhi: A day after Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned amid student protests over alleged irregularities in the NEET examination, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday announced the formation of a high-powered task force to recommend reforms in the country’s examination system.

In a video message posted on X, the Prime Minister said the committee will be headed by noted technology expert and Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.

Nilekani is widely known for his role in developing the Aadhaar system.

Modi stated the task force will suggest measures to improve the transparency, efficiency, and reliability of examinations, with a strong emphasis on the use of advanced technology. The government will take necessary steps to implement reforms based on the panel’s recommendations to ensure a more robust and credible examination process.

The Prime Minister also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance transparency, including the introduction of stricter laws to regulate the examination system. He further highlighted the decision to set up fast-track courts to ensure swift justice and stringent punishment for those involved in NEET paper leaks.

According to an official statement, the task force will also include former ISRO Chairman S. Somnath, former Intelligence Bureau Director Tapan Deka, IIT Madras Director V. Kamakoti, former Education Secretary Anita Karwal, and logistics expert Amrit Lal Meena.

Earlier on Sunday, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi assumed charge as the new Union Education Minister.

Dharmendra Pradhan resigned from his post on Saturday following protests led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi. The protesters demanded accountability and called for his resignation over the controversy.

Similar demonstrations were reported across several parts of the country, reflecting widespread outrage among students over the alleged irregularities in the NEET examination. Opposition parties also extended their support to the protests.