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UPSC to Introduce Biometric Authentication and AI Surveillance from June 2025
In a landmark move to enhance the security and transparency of competitive examinations, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is gearing up to implement Aadhaar-based biometric authentication and AI-powered surveillance systems starting June 2025. This initiative aims to curb the rising instances of exam malpractices, including impersonation and forgery.
According to UPSC officials, the new verification system will not impact the upcoming Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2025, which is scheduled for this Sunday and will witness over 9.5 lakh candidates appearing at 80 centers nationwide.
Key Technologies and Official Authorization for Enhanced Exam Security.
The reform includes fingerprint and facial recognition at exam centers, QR code scanning of e-Admit cards, and real-time AI-based CCTV monitoring to detect any suspicious behavior during the examination process. These measures were first proposed in a tender released in June 2024, inviting public sector agencies to handle the large-scale implementation.
In August 2024, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) officially authorized the UPSC to use Aadhaar authentication voluntarily at various stages of the examination process. This includes One Time Registration (OTR), admit card verification, and candidate entry at examination halls.
UPSC Chairman Speaks on Reforms Following Puja Khedkar Controversy and Steps to Strengthen Exam Integrity
UPSC Chairman Dr. Ajay Kumar confirmed, “The biometric and AI-based system will be introduced for all exams starting June onwards. It’s a step forward in ensuring fairness and accountability in our selection process.”
This decision follows widespread scrutiny over the case of former IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, who was dismissed from service in 2024. Investigations revealed she had exceeded the permissible number of exam attempts and used falsified personal information, including her name and her parents’ names, to bypass the UPSC’s rules. Her candidature for the 2022 exam was cancelled, and the DoPT later terminated her employment. Khedkar has denied the allegations and is currently contesting the decision in court.
In the aftermath of this controversy, the UPSC reviewed candidate records from 2009 to 2023 and found no similar violations among over 15,000 selected candidates. However, the Khedkar case exposed critical gaps in identity verification protocols, prompting the Commission to reinforce its Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
The UPSC conducts 14 major exams annually for prestigious Group A and Group B positions in the central government. With this technological upgrade, the Commission seeks to restore public trust and maintain the integrity of its examination system.
This shift towards advanced surveillance and biometric verification marks a new era in the Indian examination system, where technology will play a central role in upholding merit and preventing manipulation.