The Aadhaar system is designed to provide a unique identity to all the residents of India irrespective of their gender, socio-economic status, race, or religion. It is based on biometric and demographic data, such as fingerprints, iris scan and photographs – all of which are recorded as part of the Aadhaar registration process.
What is an ‘Aadhaar Card’?
An Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number allotted by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The UIDAI issues a unique identification number for each citizen of India once they have successfully completed the Aadhaar registration process and submitted all the relevant documents required. It is by far the largest biometric ID system in the world. It holds a standing of over 1.5 billion members enrolled.
There are three other types of Aadhar as well – e-Aadhaar, Masked Aadhaar and Baal Aadhaar.
- e-Aadhaar: It is an electronic copy of the Aadhaar card. It can also be considered a password-protected duplicate copy that can be downloaded from the UIDAI website.
- Masked Aadhaar: The masked Aadhaar card conceals the first 8 digits of your unique Aadhaar number, while the last four digits are visible and can be used for identification purposes.
| Note: This type of card holds equal legitimacy. |
- Baal Aadhaar: This type of Aadhaar card is made for the newborns and children below 5 years of age.
| Note: The minimum age requirement for biometric verification of Aadhaar is 5 years. |
Aim of Introducing Aadhaar in India
The system of Aadhaar was first introduced in 2010 in India by former PM, Dr. Manmohan Singh.
There are various documents for the purpose of identification of someone like PAN, ration card, passport, driving license etc. But just to note, these documents weren’t enough to create a national database when trying to elevate the administrative efficiency.
The goal of introducing this scheme was to help the marginalized and rural people avail state services that were not available to them under the old system. Thus, the basic aim of the card is the identification of citizens and giving them the benefits of the government schemes.
Advantages of Aadhar Card
There are many other benefits of an Aadhaar card:
- It helps in removing the fake documents or frauds in financial system.
- A unique identity of the individual is made post registering with biometrics.
- Can be used for official reasons like bank account opening, PAN application etc.
- Used for passport applications
Can you apply for Aadhaar Card?
Section 3 of the Aadhaar Act 2016 states that all residents are eligible for Aadhaar card on submitting their biometric and demographic details.
NRI and OCI can also apply for same under certain conditions. However, the mandatory condition is that they must prove that they have resided in India for more than 182 days in the last 12-months before applying for Aadhaar.
Documents Required for Aadhaar Card
| Type of Document |
Valid Documents |
| Identity Proof |
Voter ID, PAN Card, Ration Card, Passport, Driving License, etc. |
| Proof of Residence |
Ration Card, Bank Passbook, Utility Bills, Insurance Documents, Arms License, etc. |
| Proof of Birth |
Birth Certificate, Passport, SSC Certificate, Marksheet issued by College/University, etc. |
| Relationship Proof |
PDS Card, Pension Card, Passport, MNREGA Job Card, etc. |
Aadhaar Application Process
Aadhar Enrolment is completely free of cost.
- Visit the UIDAI website (www.uidai.gov.in) and go to ‘My Aadhaar’ section to book an appointment.
- Visit the nearest authorized Aadhaar card enrolment centre with all the documents required for verification.
- The documents should include proof of identity and proof of residence (a set of photocopies of these documents must be carried as well).
- At the enrolment centre, fill up the application form accurately with all the necessary details.
- Give your biometric details, i.e., fingerprints and iris scan (this shall be taken as part of the exam).
- After completing all the formalities, a temporary acknowledgement slip shall be given for enrolling. This can be needed to track the application status.
- Application is sent for central verification.
- The Aadhaar card is sent through post within 60 days.
Aadhar Application Process for Non-Resident Indians
Although the enrolment process is majorly the same, NRIs must follow the steps below to apply for an Aadhaar card:
|
Valid Indian Passport Needed for NRI to apply.
|
- Visit the UIDAI website (www.uidai.gov.in) and go to ‘My Aadhaar’ section to book an appointment or visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre.
- Fill in the application form.
- Show the Indian passport as proof of identity (it can be used for both proof of identity and proof of residence).
- It is mandatory for NRIs to provide their Email IDs.
- Provide the required biometric details and give declaration.
- After submitting the application, collect the acknowledgement slip that has your enrolment ID, date and time stamp.
Enrolment of Children
Children under the age of 5 years shall be enrolled by providing the Aadhaar card and biometric details of the parent/guardian.
PAN and Aadhaar Link
Central Government makes it mandatory for all tax paying individuals to link their Aadhaar Card with PAN. Following categories are exempted:
- Individuals not Indian citizens.
- Individuals who are more than 80 years old.
- Individuals living in J&K and Meghalaya
- Individuals who are not residents as per the Income Tax Act, 1961.
| Note: Failing to link PAN with Aadhaar before 1 July 2023 can result in the PAN being inoperative, which means you may not be able to carry out banking services, file for income tax returns or perform any NSE or BSE transactions. |
Privacy and Misuse Prevention
Aadhaar card holders who have registered their mobile number may lock their biometrics. This aims to strengthen privacy and confidentiality of Residents Biometrics Data
Summary
Person can obtain an Aadhaar via a simple and easy procedure. The enrolment process is easily available for everyone on the UIDAI website, which allows you to book an appointment at the Aadhaar enrolment centre nearest to you.
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