MAY 05: In a significant move towards leveraging biometric technology for secure and transparent exam processes, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) successfully conducted a Proof of Concept (PoC) for face authentication during the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET UG) 2025 held in New Delhi.
The pilot initiative was a collaborative effort between UIDAI, the National Informatics Centre (NIC), and the National Testing Agency (NTA). It aimed to explore the viability of Aadhaar-based face authentication for verifying the identity of candidates in large-scale national examinations. NEET, being one of India’s most competitive and widely attended exams, served as an ideal platform for testing this advanced verification process.
At select NEET centers across Delhi, Aadhaar’s face authentication technology was integrated with NIC’s digital infrastructure and NTA’s standard operating protocols. This contactless method of authentication allowed for real-time biometric verification using Aadhaar’s secure database, minimizing the need for physical checks and reducing the risk of impersonation.
The pilot yielded highly encouraging results, with the system demonstrating excellent accuracy and efficiency in candidate identification. The successful trial indicates the scalability and student-friendly nature of the technology, which could become a mainstream solution for examination authorities in the future.
The initiative underscores the Government of India’s broader vision to integrate digital innovation into public services, making them more secure, reliable, and efficient. By deploying Aadhaar-based facial recognition, the government is aiming to not only enhance exam integrity but also provide a smoother and safer experience for candidates.
In addition to its immediate application in exams, this technological advancement opens doors to wider use cases in sectors where secure identity verification is critical. The ability to conduct real-time, contactless, and accurate authentication can be a game changer for sectors like education, health, and public distribution.
This pilot reflects the potential of Aadhaar-enabled digital infrastructure to deliver scalable, secure, and inclusive solutions. It represents another step in India’s journey towards becoming a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.