The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is set to revolutionize its examination process by introducing advanced AI-powered surveillance and facial recognition technologies to curb cheating and impersonation. According to money control reports, this bold move aims to fortify the integrity of one of India’s most prestigious exams.
The decision to upgrade the security measures comes after a recent scandal involving Puja Khedkar, a trainee IAS officer who allegedly faked her identity to sit for the civil services exam. The UPSC's new strategy involves several cutting-edge technologies designed to ensure candidates' authenticity and prevent malpractices during exams.
Candidates' identities will be verified using their Aadhaar-linked fingerprints. This measure will ensure that only the registered candidates can enter the exam halls.
This technology will be employed to cross-check the identities of candidates. The facial recognition system will compare the candidate's face with the photo submitted during registration, preventing attempts at impersonation.
Advanced CCTV cameras equipped with artificial intelligence will monitor exam halls. These cameras can detect suspicious activities and movements, alerting authorities to potential cheating.
Candidates' admit cards will feature QR codes that can be scanned to verify their validity and ensure that only legitimate candidates are allowed entry.
The UPSC has invited tenders from public sector undertakings (PSUs) to provide these technical services. The selected service provider will deploy the necessary technology and staff at exam centres nationwide. This comprehensive approach is expected to significantly enhance the security and credibility of the UPSC exams.
Introducing these measures underscores UPSC's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of examination integrity. By leveraging technology, the commission aims to create a foolproof system that deters cheating and upholds the exam's credibility.
The initiative also reflects a broader trend in examination security, where institutions are increasingly adopting advanced technologies to safeguard against malpractices. Implementing AI and biometric technologies in the UPSC exams could set a precedent for other competitive exams in the country.
The UPSC's proactive steps in integrating technology with traditional examination methods signify a forward-thinking approach to tackling modern challenges. As these measures come into effect, the UPSC exams are expected to become more secure, transparent, and reliable, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates succeed.
This move not only fortifies the examination process but also reaffirms public confidence in the fairness and integrity of the UPSC, a cornerstone of India's administrative framework.
