New UPSC Registration System 2025: Aadhaar Authentication Now Mandatory

What’s Changing in the UPSC Registration Process?
As part of an effort to improve transparency, streamline verification, and reduce exam centre errors, UPSC has made Aadhaar authentication mandatory for all new registrations. The shift brings several strategic advantages to exam aspirants:
Key Features:
Aadhaar Priority:
Aadhaar is now the preferred ID for UPSC applications. While other photo IDs (like Voter ID, Passport) are still accepted, Aadhaar-linked profiles will enjoy faster processing and earlier confirmation at exam centres.
New Portal Implementation:
The older OTR system has been scrapped. All future registrations will occur through a unified digital portal on upsc.gov.in, which now mandates Aadhaar verification and fresh document uploads.

Top 3 Benefits for Aspirants
Permanent Digital Profile:
Your Aadhaar-linked profile becomes your one-stop solution for all UPSC-related exams, whether it’s IAS, IPS, or IFS.
Time-Saving at Exam Centres:
With Aadhaar-based verification, you’ll face fewer delays during entry and document verification.
Error-Free Forms:
Auto-filled details based on your Aadhaar minimize common form submission errors.
Note: Carry a physical copy of your Aadhaar or any alternative valid photo ID on the day of the exam, even if you’ve registered digitally.

Step-by-Step Registration Process
Here’s how to register under the new system:
Visit the UPSC Website: Go to upsc.gov.in.
Create Your Profile: Register using your Aadhaar details for immediate authentication.
Upload Documents: Submit scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and other necessary documents.
Use Same Credentials for Future Exams: Once created, your profile is permanent and can be reused.

Exam Relevance: What to Prepare For
Prelims Focus (GS Paper II):
Questions around Aadhaar Act 2016
Digital governance tools and exam security
Mains Focus (GS II & III):
GS II: E-governance and administrative reforms
GS III: Role of technology in improving public service delivery
Essay: “Digital Identity and its Role in Transparent Governance”

Why This Move is Crucial
Supports Digital India: Reinforces the national vision for e-governance and paperless administration.
Enhances Exam Security: Reduces the scope of impersonation and fraudulent entries.
Improves Efficiency: Allows seamless integration with academic, demographic, and government data repositories for future policymaking.

✅ Action Checklist for Candidates
✔️ Create a New Profile Immediately: The old OTR system no longer applies.
✔️ Match Aadhaar and Academic Documents: Ensure your Aadhaar name and birth date align with your educational records.
✔️ Keep Alternate IDs Ready: Voter ID, PAN Card, or Passport as backup for verification.