Team siliconindia

• Facial biometric verification to start with JEE (Main) 2026 and later expand to other major entrance exams.
• Live photo capture to be mandatory during applications for real-time identity verification.
• Move aims to curb impersonation and exam fraud through stronger security checks.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) plans to introduce facial biometric verification and live photography across major entrance exams starting in 2026. The new system will apply to high-stakes tests such as JEE (Main) and NEET, marking a major shift in how candidate identity is verified.

According to sources, the rollout will begin with JEE (Main) in January 2026 and later extend to other national-level entrance exams. The goal is to strengthen exam security and reduce cases of impersonation and other unfair practices.

As part of this upgrade, candidates will be required to upload live photographs while filling out application forms. This feature is designed to ensure that the person registering for the exam is the same individual who appears on exam day.

The move follows a successful pilot conducted during NEET 2025. During the exam, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) tested Aadhaar-based facial authentication at select centers in Delhi. The pilot was integrated with the National Informatics Centre’s digital systems and NTA’s exam processes to assess real-time identity verification.

Facial biometric authentication works by analyzing distinct facial features and matching them with stored records using AI-based tools. In addition, live photo capture through webcams or mobile phones adds another layer of verification during both application and examination stages.

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These changes are based on recommendations from the Radhakrishnan Committee, which the central government formed after reports of paper leaks and exam-related malpractices. The committee suggested using advanced technology to protect the integrity of competitive exams.

With these measures, NTA aims to restore trust in the examination system and ensure a fair and transparent process for millions of students each year.