The National Testing Agency (NTA) has cancelled the English, Commerce, and Sociology papers of the June 2026 UGC-NET cycle following allegations by experts that generative AI was involved in creating and translating questions, which led to numerous errors and repeated content.
- Three UGC-NET papers cancelled due to repeated questions, errors, and poor translations
- Experts claim generative AI contributed to flawed drafting and inadequate human review
- NTA denies AI involvement; rescheduled exams set for September 9 and 10
What happened
The National Testing Agency (NTA) cancelled three papers of the June 2026 UGC-NET cycle—English, Commerce, and Sociology—after candidates and experts reported serious irregularities. Issues included a high number of repeated questions from past exams, numerous factual errors such as misspelt names of key academics, and problematic translations especially in the Sociology paper's Hindi version.
Subject experts, speaking anonymously, allege that generative AI was used extensively during the creation and translation of these question papers. They described the paper-setting process as ‘ad hoc’ and raised concerns over insufficient human academic review, which allowed errors and content duplication to pass unnoticed.
Why it matters
UGC-NET exams determine eligibility for assistant professorships and Junior Research Fellowships in Indian higher education, making the integrity and reliability of the papers critical for candidates’ future careers. The alleged use of AI in question paper drafting, combined with inadequate human oversight, poses risks to the credibility of these high-stakes national examinations.
The episode highlights challenges in integrating new automated technologies like AI into sensitive academic processes. It raises broader questions about the competency and transparency of exam authorities in maintaining quality with emerging tools, as well as about the safeguards needed to prevent similar issues in the future.
What to watch next
The NTA has scheduled re-examinations on September 9 and 10 as a corrective step. Stakeholders will closely monitor whether the new exams uphold higher standards of quality and accuracy, and whether sufficient human expert involvement is ensured throughout the process.
Further scrutiny may arise over the role of AI and automation within India’s examination ecosystem, potentially prompting calls for clearer policies and enhanced oversight mechanisms. The education ministry and examination bodies might also review and strengthen protocols governing question paper design and translation workflows.