RPSC: The Rajasthan Public Service Commission (RPSC) is set to revolutionize the recruitment process in the state with the introduction of a biometric verification system for candidates. This move, which initially targets the interview process, will eventually be extended to written examinations as well. The decision follows approval from both the state government's Department of Personnel (DoP) and the Union government, marking a significant step toward ensuring transparency and fairness in public service exams.
In May, RPSC sought approval from the state government to utilize biometric data as per the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, 2016. The Union government granted its consent in September, allowing RPSC to access and use Aadhaar data for the purpose of biometric verification. According to RPSC Secretary Ram Niwas Mehta, a formal gazette notification from the Department of Personnel (DoP) has paved the way for implementing this technology in recruitment processes.
The primary objective of implementing biometric verification is to address the growing concerns of cheating and fraudulent practices in state recruitment exams. One of the most pressing issues in Rajasthan’s examination system has been the problem of candidates submitting multiple applications for the same exam or employing dummy candidates to take exams on their behalf. The biometric system aims to eliminate such discrepancies by using Aadhaar information to authenticate the identity of the candidates and detect any fraudulent activity. This is expected to ensure that only genuine candidates participate in the exams.
Over the past few years, Rajasthan has faced multiple challenges related to exam malpractices, including paper leaks and the use of dummy candidates. These issues have led to the cancellation of several government recruitments. In response, RPSC has introduced a series of changes to the application and examination processes. These measures include live photo capture during the one-time registration, security threads on admit cards, and QR codes, as well as thumb impressions and handwriting analysis for candidate identification.
Source: Freepik
In May, RPSC sought approval from the state government to utilize biometric data as per the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, 2016. The Union government granted its consent in September, allowing RPSC to access and use Aadhaar data for the purpose of biometric verification. According to RPSC Secretary Ram Niwas Mehta, a formal gazette notification from the Department of Personnel (DoP) has paved the way for implementing this technology in recruitment processes.
The primary objective of implementing biometric verification is to address the growing concerns of cheating and fraudulent practices in state recruitment exams. One of the most pressing issues in Rajasthan’s examination system has been the problem of candidates submitting multiple applications for the same exam or employing dummy candidates to take exams on their behalf. The biometric system aims to eliminate such discrepancies by using Aadhaar information to authenticate the identity of the candidates and detect any fraudulent activity. This is expected to ensure that only genuine candidates participate in the exams.
Over the past few years, Rajasthan has faced multiple challenges related to exam malpractices, including paper leaks and the use of dummy candidates. These issues have led to the cancellation of several government recruitments. In response, RPSC has introduced a series of changes to the application and examination processes. These measures include live photo capture during the one-time registration, security threads on admit cards, and QR codes, as well as thumb impressions and handwriting analysis for candidate identification.
The biometric verification system will be rolled out in phases. The first phase will involve the verification of online applications, ensuring that the applicant's details match the information on their Aadhaar card. This initial phase aims to confirm that the candidate is who they claim to be before moving on to the next steps.
The second phase will involve biometric checks during interviews and counseling sessions. This stage will focus on verifying the identity of the candidate in person. By cross-checking their biometric data with Aadhaar records, RPSC aims to prevent impersonation and ensure the integrity of the interview process.
In the third phase, candidates will be required to present original documents for further verification. This will help ensure that the candidates are not using fake documents and that all the information provided in their applications is accurate.
The final phase will involve biometric verification during written examinations. Candidates will undergo fingerprint scanning, where their thumb impressions will be compared to those stored in their Aadhaar profiles. This step is crucial in preventing dummy candidates from sitting for exams on behalf of others, a practice that has been rampant in the state.
With the introduction of this biometric system, RPSC hopes to restore the integrity of the examination process. The initiative is a direct response to the increasing number of cases involving impersonation and fraudulent practices in government recruitment exams. By adopting these technological advancements, RPSC aims to create a fairer, more transparent system that ensures deserving candidates have a better chance at securing government jobs in Rajasthan.
The second phase will involve biometric checks during interviews and counseling sessions. This stage will focus on verifying the identity of the candidate in person. By cross-checking their biometric data with Aadhaar records, RPSC aims to prevent impersonation and ensure the integrity of the interview process.
In the third phase, candidates will be required to present original documents for further verification. This will help ensure that the candidates are not using fake documents and that all the information provided in their applications is accurate.
The final phase will involve biometric verification during written examinations. Candidates will undergo fingerprint scanning, where their thumb impressions will be compared to those stored in their Aadhaar profiles. This step is crucial in preventing dummy candidates from sitting for exams on behalf of others, a practice that has been rampant in the state.
With the introduction of this biometric system, RPSC hopes to restore the integrity of the examination process. The initiative is a direct response to the increasing number of cases involving impersonation and fraudulent practices in government recruitment exams. By adopting these technological advancements, RPSC aims to create a fairer, more transparent system that ensures deserving candidates have a better chance at securing government jobs in Rajasthan.