Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number, assigned by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to all the residents of India. The residents get this number by providing their biometric and demographic details at the various government authorized Aadhaar enrolment centers. This programme was launched by the former prime minister of India, Dr.Manmohan Singh, in 2009. On September 29, 2010, Ranjana Sonawane from Nandurbar district of Maharashtra state became the first Indian to receive the Aadhaar card.
In April 2010, Nandan Nilekani, who was appointed as the Chairman of UIDAI on June 23, 2009, launched the logo and the brand name “Aadhaar”. Aadhaar is a Hindi word that means ‘base’ or ‘foundation’. Currently, Mr. Pankaj Kumar is the CEO of UIDAI/Aadhaar.
Eligibility for Aadhaar Enrolment
Aadhaar was brought into effect to provide people residing in India with a document that can be used as a unique identity proof for various purposes. It is more than just an identification number. However, it is also not only Indians that can apply for Aadhar.
The eligibility criteria for Aadhaar enrolment are as follows:
- The applicant is an Indian Citizen residing in India, or
- The applicant is a non-resident Indian residing in India, or
- Aadhaar applicant is a foreigner residing in India
Even new-borns can enrol for a special type of Aadhaar known as Baal Aadhaar
Aadhaar Card for Resident Indians
Every Indian citizen can apply for Aadhaar card and get the number. The government has now made it mandatory for taxpayers to link their PAN with Aadhaar for filing their annual income tax return (ITR).
Aadhaar Card for Minors
Unlike voter identification card, Aadhaar enrolment is available for minors. To apply for Aadhaar card for children, you have to provide the birth certificate of minor child along with the proof of identity and address of parents. New-borns can also be enrolled for Aadhaar. However, they have to update their biometric data as soon as they turn 5 and 15 years old. The Baal Aadhaar card for children below 5 years is blue in colour.
Aadhaar for Foreigners
Aadhaar is not a proof of Indian citizenship. It just contains various details such as biometric data necessary to identify a person. Thus foreigners who are residing in India are eligible for Aadhaar even though they are citizens of another country. However, they have to reside in India for more than 182 days in the past 12 months to be eligible for Aadhaar.
Documents Required for Aadhaar Card
Applicants have to submit two documents at the time of enrolment – Proof of address (POA) and Proof of Identity (POI). Any of the following documents would be accepted by the UIDAI as the identity proof of the individual. These documents have the name and photograph of the individual which qualify them to act as an identity proof. Here is the list of the documents required for Aadhaar card when you are applying for one:
- Passport of the applicant.
- PAN card.
- Ration card or PDS Photo Card.
- Voter Identification Card.
- Driving licence
- NREGS Jobs Card.
- Photo Bank ATM Card.
- Voter identification card.
- Certificate of birth of the applicant.
People can download the form for applying for fresh Aadhaar as well as for updating details in their Aadhaar by visiting the following Aadhar card official website https://uidai.gov.in. This Aadhar card enrolment form is also available at all Aadhaar enrolment centres free of cost. Applicants have to fill the form completely and submit it along with the supporting documents to initiate the process of Aadhaar enrolment.
Aadhaar is a scheme launched by the government of India with many features to provide a unique identification number to everybody residing in India. Thus, the government has made this service free and there are no charges associated with it whatsoever. All charges, including the infrastructure, logistics and services, are borne by the government of India. However, in case you want to update details in your Aadhaar card, a charge of Rs 25 is taken from the applicant.
Know About UIDAI/Aadhaar Card Services
• You can download Aadhaar card online from the UIDAI member portal
• You can check Aadhaar status if your Aadhaar is generated after enrolment or not
• It is now easy to search an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre in your area in case you want to visit there to update your details
• If you forget/misplace your Aadhaar/Enrolment number, you can retrieve Lost UID/EID online quite easily
• You can update your Address online by visiting the UIDAI’s portal free of cost
• It is easy to verify the Aadhaar number of a resident as well through the online portal
• A resident can lock and unlock Aadhaar biometrics online as well as through the mAadhaar app
• Aadhaar-bank account linking status can be checked by an employee online
• You can track all authentication requests in the past 6 months by checking Aadhaar authentication history
• To protect your aadhaar and provide an added layer of security, you can generate or retrieve your Aadhaar Virtual ID against Aadhaar number
Indian Residents’ Details on Aadhaar Card
The Aadhaar card contains a number of details in itself. Some details are mentioned on the card whereas others are stored in Aadhaar’s database and can be accessed through proper channels.
Details mentioned on the Aadhaar Card:
- Name
- Date of Birth
- Aadhaar Number
- Gender
- Photograph
- Residential Address
- QR code representing the Aadhaar number
Details stored on the UIDAI database:
- Fingerprints
- Iris scan
How to get/apply for the Aadhaar Card
Considering the importance of Aadhaar and its various benefits, the next question that arises is – How to get the Aadhaar card? There is a systematic protocol and a step by step process which needs to be followed to apply for an Aadhar Card.
The applicant is required to provide the necessary information at the time of Aadhar enrolment and when such data is verified, the Aadhaar card is issued. You can check the Aadhaar enrolment status online as well.
Let us have a look at the step by step application process of the Aadhar Card:
- Aadhaar Enrolment Centre– At first, if the individual wishes to apply for the Aadhar card, he needs to check for the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. He would have to locate and then go to these Aadhaar Seva Kendras that are authorised by the UIDAI. One can locate the centre online using the portal of UIDAI. The individual is then supposed to carry his identity proof and the proof of address where he is residing when he visits the authorized centre.
- Fill the form– In the authorised centre, Aadhar Enrolment Form is available for enrolling for the card. The form is free of cost and the individual is required to fill up the entire form. This form is also available on the internet so the individual can also download the form from the internet and can easily fill it out after printing it. After filling the form, submit it at the enrolment centre in order to save time.
- Photograph and Biometric Data Collection– After the form is submitted, the process of enrolment takes place. In this method, the photograph, fingerprint scan and iris scan of the individual is taken. During the enrolment procedure, it is of utmost importance that the individual double-checks all the provided details in the form and make any rectifications if an error is found.
- Acknowledgement Slip– After enrolment, the applicant receives an acknowledgement slip that works till the time the individual receives the original Aadhar Card copy. The slip contains the enrolment number that can be used to check Aadhar status online as well as through IVR.
- Issue of Aadhaar Card– Before issuing the original Aadhar Card, all the data provided by the individual is verified through the central government agency UIDAI, and only upon proper verification, the Aadhar Card is issued to the individual.
- Dispatch of Aadhaar to the Address of the applicant– If the Aadhar verification process is successful, the applicant initially receives an SMS or a notification through e-mail. Then, in a few days’ time, the Aadhaar number gets printed on the Aadhar Card of the individual and is sent to their verified residing address through post.
Aadhaar Card Benefits/Purpose
Aadhaar number is a unique identification number that enables each individual to have a proper identity proof acceptable everywhere in the country. The Aadhar Card has many benefits that can be enjoyed by the people residing in India once they decide to enrol for the same. Though Aadhar card registration is not compulsory, still people need to apply for Aadhar card and the importance to get the card is felt by each and every one. Most of the banking schemes and income tax related forms need Aadhaar details to be furnished.
Let us have a look at the various benefits and advantages of Aadhar Card in India:
Identity Card
Aadhaar is an identity card accepted by all government and non-government organisations even though it is not a citizenship document. It not only has the photograph of the card holder but also contains biometric details like fingerprints and iris image. Aadhaar card also contains a QR code that can be scanned to verify whether the details mentioned in the card are correct or not.
Proof of Residence
Aadhar card contains the residential address of the card holder. It can thus be used as a proof of residence for various governmental as well as non-governmental verification processes. Aadhaar is also considered a valid proof of residence when applying for various financial products like share market investments, mutual funds, home loan, personal loan, credit card, etc. as well as for availing financial services such as filing ITR.
Government Subsidy
The government has made it compulsory for people to link their bank accounts with Aadhaar to avail subsidies under different schemes. In order to get the subsidy directly in the bank account for schemes such as Pahal, Atal Pension Yojna, kerosene subsidy, school subsidy, food subsidies and others, people have to mandatorily furnish their Aadhaar.
Bank Accounts
Aadhaar has become a key document along with PAN for opening bank account these days. These days banks need only Aadhaar card and PAN to open a bank account for the applicant. Jan Dhan accounts also need Aadhaar of the applicant. This holds true even after the Supreme Court judgement on Aadhaar that has partially impacted its usage as a KYC document.
Income Tax
The Income Tax Department has made it compulsory for taxpayers to link Aadhaar to PAN. Aadhaar would now mandatorily be required while paying income tax and filing returns otherwise the ITR application of the taxpayer would not be processed.
Phone Connection
Almost all telecom companies provide phone connections after accepting Aadhaar as a proof of identity/address. Once Aadhaar is provided, the connection gets activated in least possible time. Also, existing customers can link their mobile numbers with their Aadhaar for re-verification even though such re-KYC can be completed using other address proof as well.
Gas Connection
People have to provide their Aadhaar for getting a new gas connection. In case they want to avail subsidy on their present gas connection, they will have to fill the KYC form and link Aadhar with their bank account to get subsidy directly in their account under the Pahal (DBTL) scheme.
Mutual Fund
Using the Aadhar Card, you could earlier complete e-KYC for mutual fund investments as mandated by SEBI. Even though the earlier e-KYC process is no longer operational, the investment account opening process is simplified in case you have your Aadhar card.
Note: The current limit for complete e-KYC for mutual fund account is Rs 50,000 per year per fund. To override this limitation, in person biometric verification needs to be completed by the investor.
Find more about Aadhaar Card
What is UIDAI?
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) was set up to provide unique identity to each and every individual residing in India which could be verified online and would be hard to duplicate and forge. UIDAI came up with Aadhaar which has now become a centre point of most of the government schemes. The organisation works under the central government and has its data centre at IMT Manesar, Haryana.
How to Fill Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form?
Applicants have to fill the Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form if they want to enrol for Aadhaar or they want to make corrections in their existing Aadhaar. The duly filled Aadhaar card correction/enrolment form should be submitted to process the request. If you are enrolling for Aadhaar, you have to fill the complete form whereas in case of updating details mentioned in your Aadhaar card, you have to fill only those details that need to be updated/corrected.
What are the documents required while applying for an Aadhaar Card?
While applying for an Aadhaar card, you have to provide two proofs – Proof of Address (POA) and Proof of Identity (POI). These documents are required for approving your identity and residence and thus have to be submitted at the time of enrolment. In case of minors, parents have to submit their identity proof and proof of residence to authenticate their child’s details.
How to apply for Aadhaar Card?
People can apply for Aadhar card by visiting any of the Aadhaar enrolment centres. They can search for a nearby Aadhar Enrolment Centre online by visiting the UIDAI website. They have to fill the Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form and submit required documents and provide their biometric data to complete the enrolment procedure.
How to check Aadhaar card status?
Once the enrolment process is complete, the applicant is handed over the acknowledgement slip which contains the enrolment number. Using this number, the applicant can check Aadhar card status whether it is generated, dispatched or is still being processed on the UIDAI website.
How to download Aadhaar card online?
Once the Aadhar card status enquiry shows that your Aadhaar number is generated, it is dispatched to your residential address. However, you can download your Aadhaar online as well. There are two ways through which you can download your Aadhar card.
Aadhar Card Download from Aadhaar Number
Step 1: You can download your Aadhaar card by entering your Aadhaar number, name and pincode.
Step 2: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number to validate your Aadhaar card download request.
Step 3: Once you enter this OTP, your Aadhaar copy will be downloaded.
Aadhar Card Download from Enrolment Number
Users can also download their Aadhaar card by following these steps:
Step 1: Enter your enrolment number and the time and date when enrolment was carried out.
Step 2: These details are mentioned in the acknowledgement slip.
Step 3: Rest of the process is same as that of the previous method.
Print Aadhar Card
You can print the downloaded e-Aadhaar card and use it as your original Aadhaar till the original Aadhaar reaches you. The e-Aadhar card is also acceptable at all places however, it is usually valid for a limited time.
How to update Aadhaar Card details?
There may be circumstances when some details might have been mistakenly filled that are not correct. Errors may also occur while updating the details in the database as well. People can update Aadhaar card details online as well as by visiting a nearby Aadhar Enrolment Centre. People can update their address online whereas for updating all other details, one has to visit the Aadhar Enrolment Centre.
How to update Address in your Aadhaar?
You can update the address in your Aadhaar card online as well as offline. The online process is free of cost whereas you have to pay Rs. 50 for update done by visiting the Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
How to change mobile number in Aadhaar card?
- You can change your mobile number in your Aadhaar card by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre.
- Mention your mobile number in the Aadhaar Enrolment/Correction Form
- You do not have to provide any proof or document to change your mobile number in Aadhaar.
- A fee of Rs 25 will be charged for the service availed.
What is URN number in Aadhar Card?
Whenever you file a request for updation or correction of details in your Aadhaar online, an Update Request Number (URN) is provided to the applicant after successful submission of the application. You can use this URN to track the updation process.
How to check Aadhaar Card update or correction status?
Aadhar details may sometimes be wrong or may need to be updated. It might take some time to make the correction after a request is made. In order to check Aadhaar update status or correction status, you can visit the UIDAI website. However, you will have to provide the Update Request Number (URN) to track the status of your update request.
How to get a duplicate Aadhaar Card?
There may be conditions when Aadhar card of a person might be misplaced or lost. In order to get a duplicate Aadhar card:
- You can call the toll free number 1800-180-1947 and follow the IVR.
- You can download e-Aadhaar from UIDAI’s website and print it to use it in place of Aadhaar.
What to do if Aadhaar Card is not received?
In case you check the status of Aadhaar on the website and find that it has been dispatched but the Aadhaar card is not received at your end, you can download the e-Aadhaar from UIDAI’s website using your enrolment number or you can place a request for sending the Aadhar card again.
Aadhar Card Verification Procedure
Aadhaar card verification is done to check whether an Aadhaar is valid or not. To verify Aadhaar, you have to do the following:
Step 1: Visit the UIDAI website and click on “Verify Aadhaar Number”.
Step 2: Enter the Aadhaar number you want to verify.
Step 3: Enter the security code
Step 4: If the Aadhar number is valid, then the age band, gender, state and last two digits of the registered mobile number of the holder can be seen on the screen.
Step 5: In case the Aadhaar number is not valid, a message is displayed stating that the Aadhaar number does not exist.
What to do if you have lost your Aadhaar Card?
In case you have lost your original Aadhaar card, you can download it online through the UIDAI website, print it and use it as the normal Aadhar card. You can search Aadhar card by name, email and mobile number and download it online. Alternatively, you can install the mAadhaar app on your smartphone and use it in place of your original Aadhaar card.
FAQs on Aadhaar Card
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with Bank Account?
A. The government has earlier made it mandatory to link Aadhaar with bank accounts. Banks have provided various options through which account holders can link their accounts with Aadhaar. Some of the methods to link Aadhaar with bank accounts are –
- Bank’s mobile app,
- Internet banking,
- Through IVR,
- By visiting the ATM or
- By visiting the bank’s branch.
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with PAN?
A. People can link their PAN with Aadhaar either online or through SMS.
- Aadhaar can be linked online by visiting
https://incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in/e-Filing/Services/LinkAadhaarPrelogin.html. - You can also link your PAN with Aadhaar through SMS. Type a message in the format UIDPAN<12 digit Aadhaar><10 digit PAN> and send the SMS to either 567678 or 56161.
Q. How to link Aadhar with your mobile number?
A. While it is no longer mandatory to link Aadhaar with mobile number, there are three methods through which you can link mobile number with Aadhaar:
- Aadhaar Linking with Mobile Number by visiting the Store
- Visit the Store of your operator and provide your mobile number
- The operator sends an OTP to your mobile number
- Provide this OTP to the operator.
- Now provide your fingerprint for biometric verification.
- You will receive a message on your number within 24 hours.
- Send ‘Y’ as the reply to complete the linking process.
- Aadhaar Linking with Mobile Number through OTP
- Your mobile number should be registered with UIDAI to avail this service
- Send an SMS to the service provider mentioning your Aadhaar number
- The operator does a demographic verification of the number
- Now, it sends an OTP request for this number to UIDAI
- UIDAI sends the OTP to the mobile number
- The user sends this OTP to the operator
- Aadhaar linking with Mobile Number through IVR
- Make a call to your operator’s verification number
- Follow the instructions and select appropriate options
- Enter your Aadhaar number
- Confirm the details provided
- Your Aadhaar will be linked with your mobile number
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with your ration card?
A. Linking Aadhaar with ration card enables easy transfer of PDS benefits to your bank account (if applicable). In order to link your Aadhaar with ration card, you have to follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest PDS centre/ration shop
- Provide the self-attested copy of your and your family members’ Aadhaar
- Now provide a self-attested copy of your ration card.
- You will have to provide your bank account details in case you have not linked it with Aadhaar.
- Now provide your fingerprint for biometric authentication.
Q. How to link Aadhar Number with EPF Account?
A. Linking your EPF account/UAN with Aadhaar allows you to access your EPF account online. Here’s how to do it:
- Register on the EPF member portal
- Login to your account
- In the KYC section, add your Aadhaar details
- Now submit the form
- Your request will appear under pending KYC
- Once approved by EPFO, it will be viewed under approved KYC
- On successful verification by UIDAI, “Verified” will be mentioned against your approved Aadhaar.
Q. What is Aadhar authentication and what are its benefits?
A. Aadhaar authentication is the process of the verification of demographic, biometric and other information submitted to the CIDR authorities for verification. The benefit of authenticated Aadhaar is that it helps in establishing identity, improving efficiency and transparency in service delivery, demographic and address verification in future.
Q. When do I need to authenticate Aadhaar Number?
A. People are expected to authenticate Aadhaar for the verification of identity under different schemes like PDS, NREGA, etc. Beneficiaries are required to authenticate Aadhaar either at the time of applying for such schemes or at the time of availing benefits.
Q. From where can I authenticate Aadhar Number?
A. The request to authenticate Aadhaar can be placed at the point of service delivery by various agencies. Some of these are self-service kiosks whereas others are operator-managed. Examples of such authentication points are FPS shops, bank terminals, NREGA centres, etc.
Q. Can a US citizen apply for Aadhar Card?
A. If the concerned US citizen is residing in India for the past 182 days continuously or in parts in a year, he can apply for an Aadhar card. But the card can be used only in India and should not be considered as the proof of Indian citizenship.
Q. How can I know if my Aadhar number is linked with my bank account?
A. UIDAI has provided a facility to check whether a bank account is linked with Aadhaar or not. Users can visit https://resident.uidai.gov.in/bank-mapper and login using their Aadhaar number and OTP to check the linkage.
Q. My mobile number is not registered in Aadhaar, how I can get my mobile number updated in Aadhaar?
A. In order to get your mobile number linked with Aadhar card, you have to visit one of the Aadhaar Enrolment Centres and submit a request for mobile phone updation. Once the request is submitted, the mobile number will be liked with Aadhaar.
Q. How can I know if my update request has been processed?
A. Whenever a person files an updation request, he gets a URN after successful submission of the form. He can track the request with the help of this URN.
Q. Is it necessary to link bank account with Aadhaar?
A. No. It is not mandatory to link bank account with Aadhaar as long as you have provided any of the other key KYC documents such as PAN, Driving License, Voter ID card, Passport etc.
Q. Is there any fee charged by UIDAI for enrolment for Aadhar Card?
A. No fee is charged by UIDAI for Aadhaar enrolment process. Also, availing original as well as duplicate Aadhar card is free of cost. However any corrections/additions made to your Aadhaar information at an enrolment center is charged Rs. 25.
Q. Can I e-file a tax return without Aadhar number?
A. E-filing a tax return without Aadhaar is not possible according to the current norms. The government has made it mandatory to link PAN and Aadhaar. In case PAN and Aadhaar are not linked, the e-filing of return would not be processed.
Q. I am not in India and I don’t have Aadhar Card. Can I apply for Aadhaar card from outside India?
A. No. You cannot apply for Aadhaar from outside of India as it is mandatory to provide biometric details at an Aadhaar Enrolment Centre, which are located in India. Additionally, you need to have a residential address in India if you want to apply for Aadhaar card.
[Also read about: PAN Card]
Latest News on Aadhaar Card
UIDAI launches 28 Aadhaar Seva Kendra across the country
02-Jan-2020– The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has set up an exclusive single-stop destination ‘Aadhaar Seva Kendra’ or ‘ASK’ for all aadhaar services for its Indian citizens. With this exclusive set up, the UIDAI will offer Aadhaar Enrolment and update related to Aadhaar services. In its first phase, the UIDAI has planned to set up 114 Aadhaar Seva Kendra across 53 cities all over India of which 28 ASK has been opened. These include metro cities, state capitals and Union Territories. Aadhaar Seva Kendra will run along with 35,000 Aadhar Kendras which is already being run by banks, post offices, BSNL and state governments.
The ASK will be opened for all 7 days a week from 9:30 A.M to 5:30 P.M. Apart from Aadhaar Seva Kendra, the UIDAI has also launched the online appointment booking facility for all its residents where they can book an appointment for aadhaar enrolment and update all aadhaar services.
Income Tax Department Extends the deadline for PAN-Aadhaar Linking to 31st March 2020
31-Dec-2019- On December 31, Income Tax Department has extended the deadline to link Aadhaar and PAN to 31st March 2020.
Income Tax Department Confirms Dec 31 as a deadline for PAN-Aadhaar Linking
15-Dec-2019- On December 15, Income Tax Department has announced that it is mandatory to link PAN card with Aadhaar card by December 31, 2019, from the earlier September 30 deadline. After this announcement, the Income Tax Department has said, “If someone fails to meet PAN-Aadhaar linking deadline, their income tax return or ITR will get rejected and their PAN card will become inoperative.”
Reprinted Aadhaar will now be delivered within 15 Days through mAadhaar App
13-Dec-2019- The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that people can now order to reprint Aadhaar from their mAadhaar App other than visiting the official website of UIDAI. The authority launched the latest version of mAadhaar App which can be downloaded by both-Android and iOS users. For getting this reprint, Aadhaar cardholders are required to pay a service charge of ₹50, and the reprinted Aadhaar will be delivered within 15 days to the registered address mentioned in your Aadhaar.
Union Cabinet Passes the Aadhaar Ordinance for Voluntary KYC Use
1-March-2019 – Union cabinet has approved the Aadhaar ordinance that allows people to voluntarily furnish their Aadhaar card for opening a bank account or applying for a new SIM card. The Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 was passed in the Lok Sabha on 4th January but could not be passed in the Rajya Sabha. The ordinance makes provision for hefty fine and also imprisonment up to 3 years in some cases for violating rules defined in the ordinance.
Linking PAN with Aadhaar Still Mandatory: Supreme Court
7-February-2019 – The Supreme Court of India has clarified that taxpayers have to link their PAN card with Aadhaar. The judgement was passed in the light of Section 139AA of the Income Tax Act under which the government has made it mandatory to provide Aadhaar at the time of filing Income Tax Returns. The last date for linking PAN with Aadhar is set to 31st March 2019 by CBDT.
UIDAI Allows Banks to Continue AEPS Transaction
04-Dec-2018 – UIDAI has allowed banks to continue providing AEPS (Aadhaar Enabled Payment System) facilities to account holders. Some banks had terminated the AEPS service owing to the Supreme Court’s decision on the constitutional validity of Aadhaar. After the approval of UIDAI, banks will be able to provide these facilities to the beneficiaries of government welfare schemes through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Supreme Court Restores the Constitutional Validity of Aadhaar
27-Sep-2018 – The 5-judges constitutional bench of Supreme Court has given the judgement that Aadhaar is a constitutional valid document and it will still be mandatory for new PAN cards as well as at the time of filing Income Tax Returns (ITR). However, the Supreme Court has said that Aadhaar will not be mandatory for opening bank accounts, new mobile connections, school admissions, etc. Even private companies cannot ask for Aadhaar card of their customers.
Plastic Aadhaar Cards can Make QR Code Dysfunctional, Says UIDAI
24-Sep-2018 – The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has said that a plastic Aadhaar card can often become unusable because of the lamination, which can make the QR code dysfunctional. The Aadhaar body said a print out of the Aadhaar on an ordinary document or an mAadhaar was a valid document. It also said people should not share their personal details or Aadhaar number with unauthorized agencies as they can be misused by them.
Biometrics Data is now safe with Lock Facility: UIDAI
20-Sep-2018 – The UIDAI has initiated the security measures for Aadhaar card holders to safeguard their biometrics data following the simple process of Enable/Disable Biometric Locking visiting the official portal of Aadhaar. Cardholders need to go online in order to get their processing done. The UIDAI has ensured the safety regarding Aadhaar data leak with initiating the locking facility.
Schools Cannot Deny Admission for Lack of Aadhaar: UIDAI
5-Sep-2018 – On 5 Sept, 2018 government agency UIDAI said that absence of Aadhaar is no longer a hurdle for taking admission in schools for students. “It is the responsibility of schools to provide Aadhaar enrolment and update facility to students to enjoy their due benefits and rights”, said the UIDAI. In an official circular, the UIDAI addressed the Chief Secretaries of State stating that it is aware of instances where some schools are refusing admission in absence of Aadhaar. The UIDAI has also encouraged schools to co-ordinate with the institutions like local banks, post offices, state education department and district administration for special camp facility in the premises to provide Aadhaar enrolment and update facility in the premises.
Enrolment agencies to give free e-Aadhaar printouts in flood-hit Kerala
22-Aug-2018 – The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has asked enrolment agencies, including banks and post offices, to help people in Kerala retrieve their Aadhaar number and get free printouts of the document if they lost it in the floods. Name and biometric authentication of the card holder will be needed to get back the number or document. UIDAI CEO Ajay Bhushan Pandey said enrolment agencies can even visit the relief camps to help people in this direction.
Can’t open bank accounts without biometric/OTP check for Aadhaar: UIDAI
21-Aug-2018 – To open a bank account, just the submission of a physical Aadhaar card or its photocopy without a biometric or OTP authentication would not suffice, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has said. According to RBI circulars, it is mandatory for a bank to go ahead with biometric or OTP authentication before considering Aadhaar for banking transaction or KYC.
UIDAI tells telcos to use face authentication feature from Sept 15
20-Aug-2018 – Aadhaar-issuing body UIDAI has finally announced a phased rollout of face recognition feature as an additional mode of authentication, starting with telecom service providers from September 15. The Authority had earlier planned to roll out face recognition feature from July 1, a target that was later pushed to August 1.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that from September 15, telecom service providers will have to use face recognition feature as an additional mode of authentication.
Correcting date of birth on Aadhaar card more than once Gets Difficult
10-Aug-2018 – Updating the date of birth on an Aadhaar card more than once is going to get difficult. A recent notification by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) says that correction of the date of birth is allowed just once. However, in case of the need of correcting it the second time, a resident will have to visit the Regional Office (RO) of the UIDAI.
Proof of Residence not Needed to Update Aadhar Address from April 2019
3-Aug-2018 – Aadhaar holders without a valid proof of residence of their current location can update their address through a new service that the UIDAI proposes to start from April 1, 2019. By using a letter with a secret PIN, residents can change their address without undergoing any hassle. People staying in rented accommodation often encounter roadblocks in updating their address that prevents them from availing services for which Aadhaar is needed. The new service will make life easy for many such people.
Delhi Government Delinks Aadhaar from the Widow, Old Age Pensions
31-July-2018 – Delhi Government has decided to do away with the requirement of Aadhaar card to avail benefits on widow and old age pension. In a state cabinet meeting, the Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal gave nod to the proposal presented by the Delhi Social Welfare Department for Delhi residents. The Delhi CM claimed that the decision was taken because a lot of people were suffering due to the inability of banks to link Aadhaar with bank accounts. The Social Welfare Department will now remit all pensions stopped due to the lack of Aadhaar.
Deadline for Linking Aadhaar with PAN Extended Till 31st March 2019
16-July-2018 – The Central Board of Direct taxes (CBDT), in a fresh circular dated 30th June 2018, has extended the Aadhaar-PAN linking deadline to 31st March 2019. Earlier, the Income Tax Department had made it compulsory for assessees to link their PAN cards with Aadhaar in order to process their Income Tax Returns (ITR). It was said that the Income Tax Department will not process the ITR forms of assessees whose both documents would not be linked. However, with this fresh extension, assessees who have not been able to link their PAN with Aadhaar have got some respite this year.
UIDAI Launches Aadhaar Update History Feature in Beta Mode
12-June-2018 – UIDAI has launched the facility to check Aadhaar update history online through which a user can check all update requests placed in the past. This will help users to keep a tab on when each update was done and what details were updated. Results are displayed in a detailed tabular format clearly mentioning the name, date of birth, mobile number, email id, gender and address along with the photograph of the user changed after the update.
Aadhaar Linking Deadline for Welfare Schemes Extended till 30th June
29-March-2018 – The government has extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with various welfare schemes from 31st march to 30th June 2018. The Supreme Court had refused to extend the deadline to which the central government provided the respite to those who were not able to enrol for Aadhaar by now. Such people who qualify for different welfare schemes but do not have an Aadhaar can enrol for Aadhaar now and link their documents with Aadhaar before the new deadline ends.
Aadhaar – PAN linking deadline extended to 30th June
28-March-2018 – The Central board of Direct Taxes has extended the Aadhaar-PAN linking deadline from 31st March to 30th June. This outcome has come after the Supreme Court extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with various instruments indefinitely from March 31st while hearing cases against the constitutional validity of Aadhaar. The extension has come as a relief to people who were not able to link their PAN cards with Aadhaar till now.
Supreme Court Denies Extending Aadhaar Linking Deadline of March 31st for Welfare Schemes
28-March-2018 – The Supreme Court has refused to extend the Aadhaar linking deadline with government welfare schemes of March 31st, 2018. Earlier, the five-judge constitution bench, headed by the CJI Dipak Misra, had extended the Aadhaar linking deadline with bank accounts, mobile number and other instruments indefinitely. Now, people who avail benefits under government welfare schemes have to link their Aadhaar with these schemes or they will be deprived of the benefits under these schemes from 1st April 2018.
Face ID to be Used for Aadhaar Authentication From July 1
27-March-2018 – UIDAI has informed the Supreme Court that it is going to start the face ID detection to authenticate Aadhaar for those individuals who have poor biometrics to curb authentication failures in those cases. As per the organisation, they already have the photograph of Aadhaar holders that can be used for authentication. This will help a huge section of senior citizens who, in some cases, are deprived of the pension benefits and provident funds due to unapproved authentications.
Aadhaar Linking Deadline Extended by the Supreme Court
19-March-2018 – The Constitutional bench of Supreme Court headed by the Chief Justice Dipak Mishra has extended the Aadhaar linking deadline indefinitely. Earlier, the last date for linking Aadhaar with various schemes was 31st March 2018. However, Aadhaar will still be mandatory for opening new bank accounts, tatkal passport and availing subsidies under various government schemes.
Aadhaar Linking with Flight Tickets to Enable Faster Airport Entry Soon
23-Nov-2017 – Domestic passengers will soon be able to gain access to the airport terminals faster than normal flyers. They have to just mention their Aadhaar at the time of air-ticket booking,. These passengers will be able to avail seamless travel experience At Ahmedabad, Kolkata and Vijaywada airports from 2018 under the Central Government’s “digi yatra” programme.
IRDAI Makes Aadhaar Linking with Insurance Policies Mandatory
09-Nov-2017 – Insurance regulator IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India) has made Aadhaar linking with insurance policies compulsory. General insurance as well as life insurance companies will have to implement this directive immediately and start the linking process. IRDAI said, “These rules have statutory force and, as such, life and general insurers (including standalone health insurers) have to implement them without awaiting further instructions”.
Aadhaar Linking for Postal Accounts Deadline 31st December
06-Nov-2017 – In order to help postal account holders meet the 31st December 2017 deadline for linking of account with Aadhaar and mobile number, the Department of Posts (DoP) has unveiled 585 additional Aadhaar enrollment centres in Andhra Pradesh. These new centres are in addition to the 1595 post offices in the state that already provide similar services.
Aadhaar verified Passengers Can Book Upto 12 Railway Tickets Online in a Month
03-Nov-2017 – In their bid to encourage people for Aadhaar enrolment, Indian railways has announced the increase in monthly online railway ticket booking quota for Aadhaar verified passengers. Now, those who have verified Aadhaar can book up to 12 railway tickets online in a month, which was earlier restricted to 6. The move has came in effect from 26th October 2017 and is being hailed as an innovative way of encouraging people to link Aadhaar with their IRCTC accounts.
Now Link Aadhaar With Mobile Using OTP
02-Nov-2017 – A tweet posted by UIDAI on Nov 2 stated that from December 1, 2017, users will be able to link their mobile number with Aadhaar through OTP (one-time password) received on their registered mobile number. Users will no longer need to visit telecom service provider centres as from next month; they will be able to link their mobile number and Aadhaar on their own from the comfort of their home.
Telecom Operators to display the reverification process on their website by December
31st Oct 2017 – UIDAI and the Department of Telecom (DoT) are making a framework which will help in linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers and their reverification. Mobile operators will have to display this data on their website by December. DoT has proposed three new facilities for linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers – OTP-based method, IVRS and through the telecom operator’s app. Telecom secretary, Aruna Sundararanjan said, “Operators have to inform DoT by November 15 on the mechanism by which all options for linking Aadhaar with mobile number are made available on their portals. This will then be verified by DoT and UIDAI over another two weeks. So we hope that by December, citizens will know about the options that they can choose online.”
Bangalore International Airport to Become Aadhaar-enabled by March
12th Oct 2017 – Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) has come up with a project to make passengers’ experience at the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) smooth and quick. The authority has decided to implement Aadhaar-enabled access system at the airport. This will help in reducing the verification time and screening time would be reduced from 25 minutes to as less as 10 minutes. The first stage would be brought into effect by March 2018. Domestic airlines would be brought on-board by June 2018 whereas all international airlines would also be brought on-board by October 2018.
Government Allocates Rs 2,000 Crores for Setting up Aadhaar Centres in Post Offices
11th Oct 2017 – The Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved Rs 2,000 Crores for setting up Aadhaar Centres in 15,000 Post Offices across India. The deadline set to complete this project is March 31st, 2018. This step is aimed at minimising frauds and corruption committed at private Aadhaar Enrolment and Update centres. This will also help in mitigating the risk of Aadhaar data breach. The government has also asked banks to open more than 15,000 Aadhaar centres in their branches. This step would not only ensure improved access for Aadhaar enrolment and update but also extend the reach of UID in remote areas.
