Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a new task force to review and overhaul India’s examination system. The panel will be led by technology entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani, a high-profile appointment that signals the government wants a broad rethink of how exams are managed.

The move comes after protests that increased pressure on the government to respond to concerns surrounding the country’s exam framework. By setting up a dedicated panel, Modi’s administration appears to be trying to address public anger and restore confidence in a system that affects large numbers of students and families.

Nilekani’s role at the head of the task force suggests the review could look at structural and technology-related changes, alongside wider reforms to exam processes. While full details of the panel’s recommendations and timeline were not immediately clear, the announcement points to a significant policy response rather than a limited administrative fix.

Education and competitive testing remain politically sensitive issues in India because of the scale of participation and the importance of exam results for future study and jobs. The new task force is likely to be closely watched as the government works to show that it can deliver credible changes after the protests.