The UPSC will introduce Aadhaar-based biometric verification and AI monitoring from June 2025 to combat exam malpractices. The Civil Services Prelims 2025 will not be impacted. The system includes fingerprint and facial identification, and QR code scanning. This follows a case of an IAS probationer using fake identities, raising the need for stronger verification methods. These changes aim to enhance integrity in recruitment processes.
Starting June 2025, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) will roll out Aadhaar-based biometric verification along with AI monitoring during its exams. This effort aims to tackle impersonation and ensure fair practices across recruitment procedures.
Importantly, this new verification system will not affect the upcoming Civil Services Preliminary Examination scheduled for this Sunday, which is expected to see nearly 9.5 lakh candidates at around 80 centers across India. Candidates can anticipate a streamlined process as the verification moves forward.
The verification will incorporate several technologies: fingerprint identification, facial recognition, and QR code scanning of e-admit cards. Furthermore, the examination will utilize live AI-enhanced CCTV tracking, designed to detect and prevent any malpractices during testing.
The decision for these measures follows a public call last year when the UPSC sought bids from various public sector undertakings to implement such new technologies. The Department of Personnel and Training has authorized UPSC to utilize Aadhaar authentication voluntarily for verifying candidates at different stages of the exam process.
A significant driver for this stricter verification comes after an alarming case involving a retired IAS probationer who managed to take the examination using multiple fake identities. Even though the UPSC’s records from 2009 to 2023 showed no similar instances, the need for a fortified verification process was recognized to prevent future occurrences of such issues.
These reforms are part of a broader initiative by the UPSC to enhance integrity and transparency in its examination and recruitment processes, ensuring that candidates are given a fair and equitable chance in the competitive landscape.
In conclusion, the UPSC’s move to implement Aadhaar-based biometric and AI monitoring exemplifies a critical step towards improving examination integrity. With technologies like fingerprint and facial recognition in place, the commission looks to mitigate malpractices in candidate verification, a response fueled by past incidents. While the upcoming Civil Services Preliminary Exam remains unaffected for now, the upcoming enhancements signal a commitment to transparency and fairness in future recruitments.
Original Source: bestcolleges.indiatoday.in
