NTA Plans Facial Recognition for JEE Main and Other Entrance Exams

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is planning to implement facial recognition technology for entrance examinations, including the JEE Main scheduled for January. This initiative aims to bolster exam security and prevent impersonation. Candidates may need to upload live photographs during the application process to ensure authenticity. A pilot project conducted during NEET 2025 tested this technology's feasibility. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has issued press notes emphasizing the importance of these measures in maintaining exam integrity. Additionally, recommendations from the Radhakrishnan Committee support the use of biometric authentication to enhance security protocols.

By Ambika Singh Dec 25, 2025, 12:13 IST

Introduction of Facial Recognition Technology

NTA Announcement: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is considering the implementation of facial recognition technology for candidates participating in entrance exams, including the upcoming JEE Main set for January. This initiative was disclosed by a senior official from the Ministry of Education, aiming to enhance security measures and combat impersonation in large-scale assessments.

Candidate Verification Process

As reported by a news source, candidates might also need to upload live photographs during their application submissions. Officials believe this requirement will help confirm that applications are submitted by legitimate candidates.

Pilot Project Insights

Facial Authentication Pilot:

The proposed plan is a continuation of a pilot project executed during NEET 2025, where Aadhaar-based facial recognition was trialed at selected centers in Delhi. This initiative, in collaboration with UIDAI, NIC, and NTA, assessed the viability of using facial recognition to authenticate candidates' identities at exam venues.

Official Communications

Press Releases from the Ministry:

Following the NEET UG, a press release from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology highlighted the exploration of this technology's potential to prevent cheating in entrance exams. Additionally, a public notice from the NTA in September urged JEE (Main) 2026 applicants to verify that their Aadhaar cards contain accurate details such as name, date of birth, recent photograph, address, and father's name.

Recommendations for Enhanced Security

Radhakrishnan Committee's Suggestions:

In an October notice, the NTA announced plans to gather information like name, date of birth, photograph, and address through Aadhaar authentication. This follows recommendations from a committee led by former ISRO chairman K. Radhakrishnan, which advocated for enhanced security protocols, including biometric verification, to uphold the integrity of examinations.