UPSC Implements Facial Recognition and AI Surveillance to prevent cheating

In response to mounting controversies surrounding alleged irregularities in NEET-UG and NET exams, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has opted for advanced technology solutions to enhance exam security, according to a report by news agency PTI on Monday.

The UPSC has initiated the implementation of facial recognition and Artificial Intelligence-based CCTV surveillance systems to combat cheating and impersonation during its various examinations. Recently, the Commission issued a tender inviting bids from experienced public sector undertakings to develop these technological solutions.

The tender outlines requirements for "Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication or digital fingerprint capturing, facial recognition of candidates, QR code scanning of e-admit cards," and "Live AI-based CCTV surveillance service" to be deployed across its exam centres.

The UPSC conducts 14 major exams annually, including the prestigious civil services examination for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS), along with numerous recruitment tests and interviews for Group 'A' and 'B' posts of the central government. Approximately 26 lakh candidates are expected to participate in these exams, conducted at up to 80 centres across various cities such as Leh, Kargil, Srinagar, Imphal, Agartala, Aizawl, and Gangtok.

"The UPSC attaches great importance to conducting examinations in a free, fair, and impartial manner. In its pursuit of these objectives, the Commission intends to leverage the latest digital technologies to verify biometric details, monitor candidate activities, and prevent cheating, fraud, unfair means, and impersonation," stated the tender document dated June 3, 2024.

The selected service provider will utilize data provided by the UPSC for Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication and facial recognition during examinations, as outlined in the tender document's scope of work. The facial recognition process will involve a stateless transaction comparing two images-one submitted during online registration and the other captured on the exam day.

This initiative by the UPSC assumes significance amid ongoing scrutiny over alleged irregularities in the UGC-NET (University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test) and NEET-UG, a medical entrance exam. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is actively investigating these allegations to uphold the integrity of competitive exams conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

By incorporating stringent technological measures, the UPSC aims to strengthen the examination process, safeguard the interests of genuine candidates, and maintain public trust in the fairness of India's examination system. This proactive approach underscores the Commission's commitment to ensuring transparent and merit-based selection processes across various government positions and services.