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PM Modi appoints Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani to lead Task Force against exam paper leaks

hellohimachalse@gmail.com 27 Jul 2026 27 Jul 2026

New Delhi: The Central Government has announced the formation of a special task force to strengthen the security and transparency of India’s examination system in the wake of the recent paper leak controversy. The task force will be headed by Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, reflecting the government’s emphasis on technology-driven reforms.

The announcement follows a series of administrative measures taken after the examination controversy, including the resignation of Union Education Minister **Dharmendra Pradhan**, changes in the Ministry of Education, and the removal of several officials from the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Who is Nandan Nilekani?

Nandan Mohanrao Nilekani is one of India’s most prominent technology leaders. Born on June 2, 1955, in Bengaluru, he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay. He began his professional career at Patni Computer Systems in 1978.

In 1981, Nilekani co-founded Infosys along with N. R. Narayana Murthy and five other colleagues. Under his leadership as Chief Executive Officer from 2002 to 2007, the company’s annual revenue reportedly grew nearly six-fold to around USD 3 billion. In 2017, he returned to Infosys as its Non-Executive Chairman following the departure of then CEO Vishal Sikka.

Architect of Aadhaar

Nilekani is widely recognised for leading the implementation of Aadhaar, India’s unique digital identity programme.

In 2009, then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh appointed him, with Cabinet rank, to head the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Under his leadership, Aadhaar was rolled out nationwide and has since become a key component of India’s digital governance infrastructure.

Although Aadhaar has faced debates over privacy and data protection, it has also been recognised internationally as a significant digital identity initiative.

Brief political stint

In 2014, Nilekani joined the Indian National Congress and contested the Lok Sabha election from Bengaluru South. He was defeated by BJP candidate Ananth Kumar and subsequently returned to the technology sector, remaining largely away from active politics.

Role in examination reforms

The Centre has stated that the new task force will focus on using advanced technology to curb examination malpractice, prevent paper leaks, and improve transparency and credibility in competitive examinations across the country.

By appointing Nilekani, the government aims to leverage his expertise in large-scale digital infrastructure and technology-led governance to recommend reforms that strengthen the integrity of India’s examination system.

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