In a noticeable shift toward convenience and transparency, over 92% of UPSC aspirants have embraced Aadhaar-based identity authentication on the newly revamped online exam portal. This strong response follows both technological upgrades by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and a recent controversy that put the spotlight on the integrity of the civil services examination process.

The UPSC launched its redesigned portal on May 28, aiming to simplify a notoriously complex registration journey. Now, candidates move through a streamlined four-step process: create an account, complete a universal registration, fill out a common application form, and then officially apply for exams. All of this happens at upsconline.nic.in, eliminating the need to re-enter information for every new application.

And the numbers are telling. Out of 2.65 lakh newly created accounts, 1.13 lakh completed full registration—with 1.05 lakh opting to use their Aadhaar details for faster identity verification. Nearly 60,000 common application forms have already been submitted, with thousands more underway.

“This upgrade is about respecting the candidate’s time,” said UPSC Chairman Dr. Ajay Kumar. “Once your information is uploaded, it becomes a reusable profile for all future exams—no more repetition, just a seamless experience.”

For the first time, UPSC is introducing biometric-based authentication, taking Aadhaar beyond just a listed ID option. This move was made possible after the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) authorized Aadhaar-based verification—voluntarily—across registration and recruitment phases starting August last year.

The timing is significant. The decision followed the much-debated case of Puja Khedkar, a probationary IAS officer accused of sitting for the 2022 civil service exam even after exceeding her attempt limit. The UPSC eventually invalidated her results, citing inconsistencies in her application, including repeated name and parental information changes. Khedkar has denied any wrongdoing and is currently contesting the decision in court.

With transparency in focus, the upgraded portal now serves as the central hub for 14 major UPSC exams, including the Civil Services Examination, NDA, and CDS. While Aadhaar authentication remains optional, officials say it dramatically speeds up processing—and they encourage applicants to use it.

As summed up in the UPSC’s own words: “Applicants are strongly advised to use their Aadhaar card for seamless verification. It becomes your permanent identity record for all future exams.”

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