NTA to Use Facial Recognition for JEE Main 2026 Exams

• NTA introduces facial recognition to ensure secure exam candidate verification.
• UIDAI-led Aadhaar authentication pilot tested during NEET-UG exam.
• Updated Aadhaar details mandatory for JEE Main 2026 exam aspirants.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) is set to introduce facial recognition technology for identity verification in its major entrance exams, including the JEE Main 2026, according to a senior official from the Education Ministry. This move is aimed at enhancing exam security and ensuring that the right candidates are taking these highly competitive tests.

The idea to use facial biometric authentication was tested earlier this year during the NEET-UG 2025 exam. In May, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) conducted a pilot face authentication exercise at selected centres in Delhi. This pilot, which used Aadhaar-based face authentication, served as a proof of concept and demonstrated how the technology could help curb impersonation and other forms of malpractice in national entrance tests.

Following the trial, officials reported that the face authentication system showed promise in verifying candidate identities more reliably. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology stated that this initiative highlighted how biometric technology could play a major role in improving the integrity of competitive exams.

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In preparation for implementing the system, the NTA has already issued public notices advising aspirants of JEE (Main) 2026 to make sure their Aadhaar cards contain accurate and up-to-date information, including name, date of birth, photograph, address, and parents’ names. Officials have also said that the NTA will retrieve key candidate details such as photograph and date of birth, directly from UIDAI through Aadhaar authentication.

A committee led by former ISRO Chairman K. Radhakrishnan had earlier recommended stronger security measures, including biometric identity checks, to protect the credibility and fairness of national entrance examinations. With these recommendations, the adoption of facial recognition systems is seen as part of a broader effort to modernise exam protocols and prevent fraudulent practices.