Aadhaar Authentication on New Exam Portal After Puja Khedkar Case

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) recently launched a revamped exam portal, introducing biometric-based Aadhaar authentication in its examination process. This new system, part of a broader digital overhaul, aims to simplify candidate verification and reduce the number of fraudulent applications. Since its launch on May 28, 2025, over 92% of registered UPSC aspirants have voluntarily chosen to authenticate their identity using Aadhaar, signaling strong acceptance of the new system despite it being optional.

Introduction of Aadhaar-Based Biometric Authentication by UPSC

Historically, UPSC has accepted Aadhaar as one of several valid ID documents for exam registration. However, biometric authentication, which uses fingerprint or facial recognition linked to the Aadhaar database, was not part of the process until recently. The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) authorized the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) in August 2024 to implement Aadhaar-based authentication voluntarily. This authorization covers identity verification at multiple stages—from registration to recruitment—via either e-KYC or simple Yes/No authentication.

The initiative is designed to streamline identity verification, reduce record duplication, and curb malpractices in the highly competitive examination process. Candidates can now register on UPSC’s new portal, upsconline. 

Significant Uptake of Aadhaar Authentication Among UPSC Candidates

As of early June 2025, the portal recorded the creation of approximately 2.65 lakh candidate accounts. Out of these, 1.13 lakh candidates completed universal registration, and impressively, 1.05 lakh (92%) opted for Aadhaar authentication. This high percentage indicates broad acceptance, highlighting candidates’ preference for faster and more reliable verification.

The use of Aadhaar not only simplifies the registration but also ensures that once data is entered, it need not be repeated for multiple exams, saving candidates time and effort. “We are continuously improving the features and user-friendliness of the portal,” said UPSC Chairman Dr. Ajay Kumar. “The focus is on eliminating duplication and improving convenience for candidates.”

Background: The Puja Khedkar Controversy That Sparked Reforms

The move towards biometric verification gained urgency following the high-profile case of Puja Khedkar, a probationary IAS officer who appeared in the 2022 Civil Services Examination despite allegedly exceeding the maximum number of allowed attempts. Her candidature was eventually cancelled due to discrepancies in her application, including changes in her name and those of her parents across different attempts. The DoPT dismissed her from service. Khedkar has denied the allegations and is challenging the decisions in court.

This controversy exposed loopholes in the existing candidate verification system and accelerated the adoption of more stringent identity verification measures by the UPSC.

Features and Benefits of the New UPSC Exam Portal

The newly launched portal covers registration and applications for 14 major UPSC examinations, including:

• Civil Services Examination (CSE)
• Combined Defence Services Examination (CDS)
• National Defence Academy Examination (NDA)
• And other key recruitment exams
   

The portal’s design is aimed at a seamless candidate experience, offering:

• Unified Registration: Candidates complete a one-time, universal registration that is usable for multiple exams.
• Simplified Application Process: Candidates fill out a standard application form that can be reused for various exams.
• Aadhaar Authentication: Strongly encouraged but voluntary biometric verification for faster, more secure identification.
   

Candidates opting for Aadhaar authentication benefit from faster processing times, while those using other ID documents may experience delays due to manual verification.

Encouragement and Advice from UPSC Officials

Although the use of Aadhaar is voluntary, UPSC officials strongly encourage candidates to use it for identity verification to benefit from an efficient and seamless process. In a statement issued during the portal launch, UPSC emphasized that Aadhaar-based authentication would serve as a permanent and common record for candidates across all examinations, reducing paperwork and duplication.

Officials have also reassured candidates that their data will be handled securely, and the biometric authentication process aims solely to verify identity, not to cause inconvenience.

Challenges and Considerations

While the majority have embraced Aadhaar authentication, some candidates remain hesitant due to privacy concerns or a lack of awareness. UPSC’s ongoing efforts to improve portal usability and educate candidates aim to address these concerns.

Additionally, the system relies on accurate Aadhaar data and smooth integration with the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) database. The UPSC continues to monitor and upgrade the system to ensure reliability and data security.

Looking Ahead: A Digital Future for UPSC Exams

The adoption of biometric Aadhaar authentication marks a significant milestone in modernizing India’s premier civil service examination process. By reducing fraud, enhancing transparency, and simplifying procedures, UPSC is positioning itself to handle increasing candidate volumes efficiently.

The new portal and Aadhaar integration also align with the Government of India’s Digital India initiative, which seeks to leverage technology for transparent and accessible public services.

Conclusion

The voluntary uptake of Aadhaar authentication by over 92% of UPSC applicants within a week of the new exam portal’s launch demonstrates a strong move toward digital transformation in government exams. This shift, accelerated by past controversies such as the Puja Khedkar case, promises a more secure, convenient, and transparent examination process. Candidates are encouraged to adopt the Aadhaar-based system to benefit from faster verification and avoid delays.

The UPSC’s efforts to streamline exam applications and verification pave the way for a more efficient and trustworthy selection process for India’s future civil servants.