New Delhi: The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) will begin using Aadhaar-based biometric authentication for all its recruitment examinations starting May 2025, officials announced on Sunday. The move is aimed at enhancing identity verification and curbing fraudulent practices during the exam process.
This authentication system will be implemented on a voluntary basis, allowing candidates to opt-in at multiple stages — during online registration, while filling out the application form, and at the examination center.
The SSC, one of the central government’s key recruitment agencies, is responsible for selecting candidates for non-gazetted posts in various ministries and departments. According to a recent public notice, the introduction of Aadhaar authentication is intended to simplify procedures for candidates while ensuring greater transparency and security.
“The Commission has decided to implement Aadhaar-based biometric authentication in its forthcoming examinations,” the notice said, highlighting that the initiative is completely optional and candidate-friendly.
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), based on an individual’s biometric and demographic data. Officials believe that integrating Aadhaar into the examination process will significantly reduce cases of impersonation and other irregularities.
Earlier, on September 12, 2023, the Union Personnel Ministry gave the SSC the go-ahead to use Aadhaar authentication, provided it adheres to the Aadhaar Act, 2016, and all relevant guidelines issued by the UIDAI.
The SSC conducts several nationwide competitive exams annually, including the Combined Graduate Level Examination (CGLE) and three departmental exams, attracting lakhs of aspirants across the country.
