The Union Public Service Commission is pushing a new round of examination reforms as it completes 100 years, with a focus on shorter recruitment cycles and technology-led processes.

UPSC Chairman Ajay Kumar said examinations should test reasoning, spontaneous thinking and judgment in ambiguous situations, going beyond predictable or coached answers. The commission’s stated vision is built on trust, transparency and technology.

Technology measures include digital e-admit cards and face authentication. During the Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, about 5.50 lakh candidates underwent facial verification through invigilators’ mobile phones.

The commission introduced a Universal Registration Number in 2025, randomised interview boards and a candidate helpdesk. For the 2026 prelims, UPSC released the provisional answer key soon after the exam, with candidates able to file representations through the QPRep portal for expert review.

Prime Minister Modi, addressing the centenary, called for greater cross-learning among recruitment commissions and standardised procedures.

About 5.5 lakh candidates used face authentication during the 2026 preliminary examination, the commission said.