NO MORE SEALED PAPERS TO STEAL: NANDAN NILEKANI PROPOSES AI-GENERATED EXAM QUESTIONS TO SHUT DOWN LEAKS

October 13, 2026 

Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani has called for a fundamental overhaul of India’s examination system, proposing that artificial intelligence generate question papers on the day of the examination to reduce the risk of leaks and fraud in high-stakes entrance tests such as the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET).

Nilekani, who heads a high-powered task force examining reforms to the National Testing Agency (NTA), advocated the creation of massive question banks from which examination papers could be assembled at the last minute. The approach would reduce dependence on a single, pre-prepared question paper that could be stolen or circulated before the test.

Under the proposed model, AI tools could help select and assemble questions from a large, secure database, making it more difficult for organised networks to obtain advance access to the examination content. The system would require careful controls to ensure that different question papers maintain comparable levels of difficulty and assess candidates against the same academic standards.

COMPUTER-BASED TESTING AS A SECOND LINE OF DEFENCE

Nilekani also backed the expansion of computer-based testing across the country. Moving examinations away from the traditional pen-and-paper format could reduce some of the logistical vulnerabilities associated with printing, transporting and distributing physical question papers.

A nationwide digital testing infrastructure would, however, require secure examination centres, dependable computer systems, reliable internet or protected local networks, and strong safeguards against cyberattacks and technical failures. Ensuring equitable access to such facilities across urban and rural areas would be another major implementation challenge.

The proposals come amid renewed scrutiny of the NTA following the NEET-UG 2026 paper-leak controversy and cancellation of the examination. Questions about examination security have intensified demands for institutional reform and stronger accountability.

Nilekani indicated that the Prime Minister was keen to implement the task force’s recommendations. The report on examination paper leaks is expected to be submitted on October 28.

A TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTION, NOT A STAND-ALONE GUARANTEE

AI-generated question papers could reduce the risk of advance leaks, but technology alone cannot eliminate examination fraud. The effectiveness of the model would depend on the integrity of question-bank contributors, protection of digital systems, independent auditing and transparent procedures for validating the quality of examination papers.

The proposed reforms signal a shift towards a more secure, technology-driven examination framework. If implemented effectively, they could help restore confidence in national entrance examinations and strengthen protections for millions of students whose academic futures depend on fair and reliable testing.