The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has taken a significant step towards enhancing the security and integrity of its exams by introducing Artificial Intelligence-enabled facial recognition technology for candidate verification. Under this new measure, all candidates appearing for UPSC will undergo face authentication at the exam venue, marking a major upgrade in exam conduct and monitoring.
The decision follows the successful completion of a pilot programme aimed at testing the effectiveness of AI-driven facial authentication for quick and secure candidate identification. According to news agency PTI, the pilot was implemented during the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Naval Academy (NA) II Examination 2025, as well as the Combined Defence Services (CDS) II Examination 2025, which were conducted on September 14, 2025.
The trial was carried out at selected exam centres in Gurugram, where candidates’ facial images were digitally scanned and matched with the photographs submitted during the online registration process. The technology enabled real-time verification, ensuring that the candidate appearing for the exam was the same individual who had registered for it.
The new system significantly reduced the time required for verification, bringing it down to an average of just eight to 10 seconds per candidate. This not only streamlined the entry process but also added an additional layer of security to prevent impersonation and other unfair practices.
The introduction of facial recognition technology reflects UPSC’s growing focus on leveraging advanced digital tools to safeguard the credibility of its exams. With this initiative, UPSC aims to ensure a more transparent, efficient, and secure exam environment, reinforcing trust among candidates and stakeholders while keeping pace with evolving technological standards.