The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) is stepping up its efforts to combat cheating and enhance the integrity of its examination process by implementing AI-based CCTV surveillance across its exam centres.
This decision follows a series of controversies and irregularities in recent examinations, including NEET and NET, which have raised serious concerns about exam security.
The UPSC's new surveillance system incorporates several advanced technologies to ensure a fair and transparent examination process. Key features of the system include:
- Aadhaar-Based Fingerprint Authentication: To verify the identity of candidates, ensuring that only registered candidates can enter the examination hall.
- Facial Recognition: Complementing fingerprint authentication, this technology will further validate candidate identities and prevent impersonation.
- QR Code Scanning: This is for efficient and accurate attendance tracking.
- Live CCTV Surveillance: Monitored by AI, this feature detects and alerts authorities to real-time suspicious behaviour or potential cheating activities.
These measures will be rolled out across all 14 major examinations conducted by the UPSC, including the highly coveted civil services examination, which recruits for the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), and Indian Police Service (IPS). Given that over 26 lakh candidates are expected to appear for these exams across 80 centres nationwide, the UPSC's initiative is a significant step towards maintaining the sanctity and fairness of the competitive examination process.
The introduction of AI-powered surveillance is timely, addressing growing concerns about exam security and credibility. The UPSC's move also responds to broader demands for technological integration in public examinations to curb malpractices and enhance transparency.
The UPSC aims to create a secure and equitable examination environment by adopting these advanced technologies. This initiative underscores the commission's commitment to upholding the highest standards of fairness and integrity, ensuring that candidates' efforts are evaluated purely on merit.