In a significant move to fortify the integrity of India's premier entrance examinations, the National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to deploy facial recognition technology for identity verification. This new system will be implemented for major tests, including the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test-Undergraduate (NEET-UG) and the Joint Entrance Examination-Main (JEE-Main), starting from the 2026 academic session.
Successful Pilot Paves the Way for Nationwide Implementation
The decision follows a conclusive proof of concept (PoC) conducted during the NEET 2025 examination. In this pilot project, Aadhaar-based face authentication technology was tested at selected examination centres in Delhi. The trial was executed in collaboration with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), leveraging the digital infrastructure of the National Informatics Centre (NIC) and integrating with the NTA's established exam protocols.
A senior official confirmed that the UIDAI successfully evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of the system during the NEET 2025 PoC. "Based on its outcomes, the system will be extended to major entrance exams from next year," the official stated, marking a clear path for the technology's expansion.
Dual-Layer Verification: Live Photos and Biometric Matching
To create a robust security framework, the NTA is introducing a two-step verification process. At the application stage itself, candidates will face a new mandatory requirement. They must upload both a standard scanned photograph and a live photograph captured in real-time via a webcam or mobile device while filling out the form.
"This dual verification ensures that the person applying is the same individual who appears for the exam. Older photographs will no longer be accepted," the official emphasized. This step is designed to prevent the submission of outdated or fraudulent images at the outset.
At the examination centre, the facial recognition system will then spring into action. The technology works by analysing an individual's unique facial features—such as the distance between the eyes, jawline contour, and shape of the nose—and matching them against the stored biometric data using advanced AI algorithms. This real-time check aims to stop impersonators in their tracks and curb the use of unfair means.
A Response to Scrutiny and Committee Recommendations
This push for enhanced digital surveillance and stricter protocols comes at a time when the integrity of national-level exams is under intense scrutiny. The move is a direct response to alleged paper leak incidents that have shaken public confidence. The measures were formally recommended by the Radhakrishnan committee, which was constituted by the central government to undertake a comprehensive review of how major entrance examinations are conducted.
The integration of Aadhaar-based facial authentication represents a technological leap in securing the examination process for millions of aspirants. By linking real-time identity verification with the country's foundational digital ID system, the NTA aims to restore trust and ensure a level playing field in high-stakes tests like NEET and JEE.
