Build Cybersecurity Module For All Major Indian Exams, NTA Chief Tells MHA, Lauds Efforts During JEE (Mains) – News18

Last Updated:February 13, 2025, 10:08 IST

According to a government official, multiple teams were formed to visit and inspect examination centres nationwide, monitor public IPs used by TCS during the examination, and check for unauthorised access, data theft, server breaches, and other cybersecurity threats

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)’s move to deploy cyber commandos and experts for the JEE (Mains) Examination following an input from its Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) — which had led to the cancellation of UGC-NET — has won praise from all quarters.

The cyber commandos had worked in coordination with the National Testing Agency (NTA) to ensure cybersecurity for the January 2025 exam. In fact, the cyber threat assessment system was so effective that National Testing Agency (NTA) chief Pradeep Singh Kharola has requested I4C to develop a cybersecurity module for all upcoming examinations to oversee the cybersecurity aspects at NTA.

A senior official stated that after the UGC-NET cancellation, NTA sought I4C’s assistance in securing key examinations. To enhance security and ensure a fool-proof system, I4C and cyber commandos conducted inspections at various examination centres across the country.

According to a government official familiar with the matter, multiple teams were formed to visit and inspect examination centres nationwide. These teams also monitored public IPs used by the delivery agency (TCS) during the examination process. Additionally, they checked for unauthorised access, data theft, server breaches, and other cybersecurity threats.

Noting these efforts, the NTA chief wrote to I4C CEO Rajesh Kumar last week, stating, “I am writing to express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to you and your dedicated team at I4C for the unwavering support and guidance on cybersecurity aspects during the conduct of JEE (Main) 2025 Session I examination.”

He further acknowledged the critical role played by I4C officials and cyber commandos in inspecting centers and monitoring public IPs used by TCS.

“This emphasis on teamwork has created an atmosphere of trust and collaboration, strengthening our professional relationships and enhancing productivity,” Kharola wrote in the letter seen by News18.

Additionally, he urged I4C to develop a dedicated system to secure future examinations.

“We look forward to your continued support in all forthcoming examinations and request your guidance in developing a module to oversee basic cybersecurity aspects at NTA. I am confident that this initiative will positively impact NTA’s workflow and contribute to future successes.”