UPSC Mandates Facial Recognition at Exam Centres

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has mandated the use of facial recognition technology for verifying the identity of all candidates at examination venues, marking a significant shift toward technology-driven exam security.

Under the new protocol, candidates appearing for UPSC examinations will undergo facial recognition–based verification at entry points, in addition to existing checks such as admit cards and photo identification. The move is aimed at preventing impersonation, curbing unfair practices, and strengthening the integrity of high-stakes competitive exams that attract lakhs of aspirants every year.

UPSC officials said the system will match a candidate’s live facial scan at the exam centre with images submitted during the application and registration process. The verification is expected to be conducted seamlessly to avoid delays, with trained staff overseeing the process and manual checks available in exceptional cases.

The decision comes amid rising concerns over exam fraud, including cases of proxy candidates and forged identities across competitive examinations nationwide. By adopting biometric verification, UPSC joins a growing list of public institutions using technology to enhance transparency and trust in selection processes.

While the move is likely to strengthen exam security, it also raises questions around data privacy and safeguards. Facial recognition involves the collection and processing of sensitive biometric data, which falls under the ambit of personal data protection. Experts stress that clear guidelines are needed on data storage, retention periods, access controls, and deletion once verification is complete.

The rollout also places operational responsibility on exam centres to ensure reliable hardware, accurate matching, and contingency plans for technical failures. Any glitches could risk delays or anxiety for candidates on exam day.

From a broader perspective, UPSC’s decision reflects India’s increasing reliance on biometric technologies in public systems—from digital identity to examinations. If implemented with transparency, minimal data retention, and strong security controls, facial recognition could significantly reduce malpractice. However, maintaining candidate trust will depend on how responsibly and proportionately the technology is used.

As competitive exams continue to evolve, UPSC’s move signals a clear intent to prioritise credibility and fairness—while reopening the debate on balancing technological enforcement with individual privacy rights.