The Maharashtra government has decided to conduct the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) online from next year to prevent paper leaks, state Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar announced on Saturday. The decision comes after a series of exam paper leak incidents that have plagued the state's recruitment processes.
Online Format to Ensure Transparency
Speaking to reporters, Kesarkar said the move to an online format will enhance the security and integrity of the examination. The TET is a mandatory qualification for teachers in primary and upper primary schools in Maharashtra. The online test will be conducted by the Maharashtra State Council of Examinations (MSCE).
The minister stated that the decision was taken after reviewing the recommendations of a committee formed to suggest measures to prevent paper leaks. The committee had submitted its report earlier this month, proposing several reforms, including the adoption of a computer-based test (CBT) format.
Paper Leak Incidents Prompt Action
Maharashtra has witnessed several high-profile paper leak cases in recent years, including the Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) exams and the State Common Entrance Test (CET) for nursing and pharmacy courses. In 2024, the Maharashtra State Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education (MSBSHSE) also faced allegations of question paper leaks for the Class 10 and 12 board exams.
According to sources, the government has also decided to tighten the security of physical question paper storage and transportation until the online system is fully implemented. The first online TET is expected to be held in the first quarter of 2026.
Details of the Online TET
The online TET will be conducted in multiple sessions across various centers in the state. Candidates will be able to register online, and the test will include multiple-choice questions. The MSCE will ensure that all centers have adequate infrastructure, including computers and internet connectivity.
Kesarkar said that the government is also considering conducting other recruitment exams online in the future. The move is expected to reduce the time taken to declare results and minimize human errors in evaluation.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Teachers' unions have welcomed the decision, stating that it will restore faith in the examination system. "The online format will not only prevent leaks but also ensure a level playing field for all candidates," said a spokesperson for the Maharashtra State Primary Teachers' Association.
However, some candidates expressed concerns about digital literacy and access to computers in rural areas. The minister assured that the government will provide training and set up special centers for candidates who are not comfortable with computers.
"We will ensure that no candidate is disadvantaged due to the change in format. Special arrangements will be made for candidates from remote areas," Kesarkar added.
Implementation Timeline
The MSCE has been tasked with developing the online platform and conducting pilot tests before the full rollout. The council will also coordinate with district authorities to identify and equip test centers. The government plans to conduct the first online TET by March 2026.
In addition to the online format, the government is also introducing a system of randomized question papers from a large question bank to further enhance security. Each candidate will receive a unique set of questions, making it impossible to share answers.
The decision to conduct the TET online is part of a broader reform of the state's examination system. The government has also announced plans to digitize the entire recruitment process for government jobs, from application to final selection.
