Facial Recognition to Be Used in UPSC Exams
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched a pilot project to verify candidates using facial recognition technology. This new system allows verification in just 8 to 10 seconds per candidate.
So far, a total of 1,129 candidates have been successfully scanned at pilot centers during various exam sessions.
Pilot Project for UPSC Exams
The facial recognition system, enabled by Artificial Intelligence (AI), was tested during the NDA (National Defence Academy) and CDS (Combined Defence Services) Examinations conducted on 14 September 2025.
UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar stated on 19 September that the system would be rolled out for all UPSC exams, including the prestigious Civil Services Examination. The system ensures quick, secure, and efficient verification.
The pilot project was conducted at selected centers in Gurugram, where candidates' facial scans were digitally matched with photos uploaded during registration.
The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the National e-Governance Division (NeGD), with the goal of enhancing transparency and streamlining candidate entry at exam centers.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are currently being developed for staff training and ensuring Wi-Fi availability at centers. The Chairman emphasized UPSC’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of fairness and transparency by adopting cutting-edge technology.
Key Highlights:
- Facial recognition verification in just 8–10 seconds per candidate.
- Pilot run during NDA & CDS exams in September 2025.
- 1129 candidates successfully verified in pilot sessions.
- Part of UPSC's broader tech-driven reform for exam transparency.
- In collaboration with NeGD under the Digital India initiative.