Jaipur: The Centre has appointed 1994-batch Rajasthan-cadre IAS officer Naresh Pal Gangwar as the new Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education, amid growing concerns over examination paper leaks and demands for reforms in India’s competitive examination system.
The appointment was made by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) at a time when the government is facing pressure over the credibility of the National Testing Agency (NTA) following controversies surrounding the NEET examination and other national-level tests.
Focus on Exam Transparency and NTA Reforms
As Higher Education Secretary, Gangwar is expected to play a key role in strengthening the examination framework and improving transparency in entrance and recruitment examinations.
Officials said his immediate priorities are likely to include:
- Strengthening safeguards against paper leaks
- Improving examination security systems
- Restoring confidence among students
- Reviewing the functioning of the National Testing Agency (NTA)
The appointment is being seen as part of the Centre’s efforts to improve accountability and speed up reforms in the education sector.
Three Decades of Administrative Experience
Naresh Pal Gangwar brings nearly three decades of administrative experience to the role.
Before this appointment, he was serving as Secretary, Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying.
During his career, Gangwar has held several important positions in Rajasthan, including serving as District Collector in multiple districts and holding senior administrative posts in the state government.
Experience in Policy Formulation
Gangwar played an important role in the formulation of Rajasthan’s Solar Policy between 2010 and 2014, during the early phase of the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission.
During his tenure in the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, he also contributed to policy work related to pollution control and hazardous waste management.
Strong Academic Background
Gangwar holds a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering from the then University of Roorkee (now IIT Roorkee), an M.Tech in Communication and Radar Engineering from IIT Delhi, and an M.A. in Economics from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur.
His appointment comes as the Ministry of Education prepares to introduce stronger measures against examination irregularities, improve testing systems and rebuild trust among millions of students appearing for competitive exams.