Archive · 22 Jun 2025
IISc Launches Face Recognition Test to Study Face Blindness in India
Imagine not being able to recognize faces, even of family members.
Some people have this challenge called face blindness.
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) created a new test, the Indian Face Memory Test (IFMT), to study this condition in India.
This test will help identify those with face blindness and those who are super recognizers.
The goal is to create more awareness and understanding of the condition.
The researchers plan to expand their study across India, using an app, to gather more data.
IISc researchers launched the Indian Face Memory Test (IFMT) to study face blindness.
The IFMT is designed for Indian faces, addressing limitations of existing tests.
The test aims to identify individuals with face blindness and exceptional face recognition.
Researchers plan to expand testing beyond Bengaluru to gather more representative data.
An Android app is in development to make the test accessible to a wider audience.
- Who
- Researchers SP Arun and Vaishnavi Mohite from IISc are leading the project.
- What
- Launch of the Indian Face Memory Test (IFMT) to study face blindness in India.
- When
- The IFMT was launched on June 21, 2024.
- Where
- The research originated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, with plans to expand across India.
- Why
- To understand and address face blindness in India, improve societal awareness, and help those affected.
- Test Name
- Indian Face Memory Test (IFMT)
- Lead Researchers
- SP Arun and Vaishnavi Mohite
- Organization
- Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
- Primary Goal
- Study Face Blindness in India
- Estimated Affected Population (India)
- Approximately 20 million
- Existing test
- Cambridge Face Memory Test
- Test accessibility
- Android app planned