Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi (SS)
New Delhi, Jun 26: In response to recent controversies surrounding exam irregularities, the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced plans to incorporate state-of-the-art technology to safeguard the integrity of its examinations.
As India's foremost central recruiting agency, mandated under Article 315 of the Constitution, the UPSC conducts pivotal examinations annually, including the prestigious Civil Services Examination (CSE), Indian Forest Service Examination (IFoS), and Engineering Services Examination (ESE), among others. These examinations serve as gateways to coveted positions in the country's administrative and civil services.
"To uphold the principles of fairness and transparency, the UPSC is implementing advanced security measures," stated a spokesperson, citing the commission's recent issuance of a tender. The tender invites bids from seasoned public sector undertakings to deploy sophisticated solutions such as "Aadhaar-based fingerprint authentication or digital fingerprint capturing, facial recognition of candidates, and QR code scanning of e-admit cards," alongside "Live AI-based CCTV surveillance services" during exams.
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The deadline for submitting bids is set for July 7, 2024, underlining the UPSC's urgency in fortifying examination protocols. This initiative aims to combat cheating, fraud, and impersonation, ensuring a level playing field for the millions of aspirants who vie for prestigious government positions each year.
"With an estimated 26 lakh candidates expected across diverse centers nationwide, including remote locations, our goal is to bolster examination security comprehensively," emphasized the spokesperson. The proposed measures will enable real-time monitoring of candidate activities, with stringent protocols to detect and alert authorities to any irregularities.
The UPSC's proactive adoption of facial recognition technology and AI-driven surveillance comes at a critical juncture as similar national-level exams conducted by the National Testing Agency face scrutiny for alleged malpractices, currently under investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation.
By embracing these digital advancements, the UPSC reaffirms its commitment to upholding meritocracy and administrative excellence, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates ascend to pivotal roles in India's governance and public service.