Aadhaar Card

What is Aadhaar Card?

Aadhaar Card is a unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to Indian residents. It serves as proof of identity and address, enabling access to various government and private services. Introduced in 2009, Aadhaar aims to provide a universal identity to every resident of India, ensuring inclusion and streamlining service delivery.

Over the years, Aadhaar Card has become integral to various facets of governance and individual identification. From availing subsidies to opening bank accounts, its utility spans a wide spectrum. As the cornerstone of India’s digital identity ecosystem, Aadhaar empowers over a billion residents with seamless access to services.

Features of Aadhaar Card

• Unique Identification: A 12-digit number that is unique to every individual, eliminating duplication and fraud.
• Biometric and Demographic Data: Includes fingerprints, iris scans, and demographic information such as name, age, and address, ensuring accurate identification.
• Universal Acceptance: Recognized as a valid identity proof across India for a variety of purposes, including travel and financial transactions.
• Ease of Access: Facilitates both online and offline verification processes, making it a versatile identity tool.
• Linked to Government Benefits: Ensures seamless access to subsidies and welfare schemes like LPG subsidies, PDS, and direct benefit transfers (DBT).
• Paperless Verification: Aadhaar’s e-KYC feature allows instant verification of identity without physical documents, promoting a green environment.

How to Apply for Aadhaar Card?

Eligibility Criteria for Aadhaar card:

• Any resident of India, including Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and children, can apply for Aadhaar.

Step-by-Step Aadhaar Card Application Process:

1. Locate Enrollment Center: Use the UIDAI website or mobile app to find the nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center.
2. Fill out the Enrollment Form: Obtain and fill the Aadhaar enrollment form with accurate details.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Provide proof of identity and address, such as PAN card, passport, voter ID, or utility bills.
4. Biometric Data Collection: The enrollment process includes capturing fingerprints, iris scans, and a photograph.
5. Receive Acknowledgment Slip: After enrollment, you will receive an acknowledgment slip containing an Enrollment ID (EID).
6. Verification and Processing: The submitted data undergoes verification, and once processed, the Aadhaar card is issued.

Checking Aadhaar Application Status:

• Visit the UIDAI website and enter your EID to track the application status. The process typically takes a few weeks.

How To Download Aadhaar Card Online

What is e-Aadhaar?

E-Aadhaar is the digital version of your Aadhaar card, available in a PDF format. It holds the same validity as the physical Aadhaar card and can be used for identity verification.

Step-by-Step Process to Download Aadhaar Card:

Step 1: Visit the UIDAI Official Website

1. Open the official UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in.
2. Navigate to the “Download Aadhaar” option under the “My Aadhaar” menu.

Step 2: Choose Your Download Method You can download your Aadhaar using one of the following:

• Aadhaar Number (12-digit unique number).
• Enrollment ID (EID) from the acknowledgment slip.
• Virtual ID (VID), a temporary 16-digit number.

Step 3: Enter Required Details

1. Select the download option you prefer.
2. Enter your Aadhaar Number, EID, or VID in the respective field.
3. Type the CAPTCHA code displayed on the screen for verification.

Step 4: Authenticate Using OTP

1. Click on “Send OTP” to receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number.
2. Enter the OTP in the provided field to complete the authentication.

Step 5: Download Your Aadhaar

1. Once authenticated, your e-Aadhaar will be ready for download.
2. Save the PDF file to your device for future use.

Step 6: Open the PDF with a Password

1. The PDF is password-protected for security. To open it, use the first four letters of your name (in capital letters) followed by your birth year (YYYY).
   • Example: If your name is Ramesh and your birth year is 1990, the password will be RAME1990.

Step 7: Print Your Aadhaar (Optional) If required, you can print the e-Aadhaar document. Ensure the QR code is visible for validation purposes.

Common Issues and Solutions While Downloading Aadhaar:

• Forgot Registered Mobile Number: Update your mobile number in Aadhar card at an Aadhaar Enrollment Center.
• Incorrect Details: Verify the details entered on the UIDAI portal.
• Technical Errors: Retry after some time or use a different browser.

Aadhaar Card Update and Correction

When to Update Aadhaar Details:

• Change in address, name, mobile number, or other demographic information.
• Errors or discrepancies in the issued Aadhaar card.

Methods for Update:

1. Online Update:
   • Log in to the UIDAI Self Service Update Portal (SSUP).
   • Submit the necessary changes and upload supporting documents.
2. Offline Update:
   • Visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center.
   • Submit a correction form along with required documents.

Checking Update Status:

• Use the “Check Update Status” option on the UIDAI website to track progress.

Linking Aadhaar with Essential Services

Why Linking is Important:

• Helps streamline identity verification.
• Enables direct benefit transfers (DBT) to linked accounts, ensuring subsidy accuracy.

Key Services Requiring Aadhaar Linkage:

1. PAN Card: Mandatory for filing income tax returns to prevent fraud.
2. Bank Accounts: Facilitates government subsidy transfers and simplifies KYC.
3. Mobile Numbers: Ensures compliance with telecom regulations for KYC.
4. EPF Account: Simplifies provident fund withdrawal and claim processes.
5. LPG Connection: Ensures direct credit of subsidies to the bank account.

Aadhaar Card for Children and NRIs

Baal Aadhaar:

• Issued to children below 5 years, it does not include biometric data. The data is updated when the child turns 5.

NRIs:

• NRIs are eligible for Aadhaar if they reside in India for 182 days or more in the preceding year. Aadhaar enables NRIs to access Indian services seamlessly.

Benefits of Aadhaar Card

• Ensures direct and transparent delivery of government benefits.
• Acts as a universal identity proof accepted across sectors.
• Simplifies access to banking, telecom, and taxation services.
• Promotes financial inclusion by enabling underserved populations to avail essential services.

Security and Privacy of Aadhaar

• UIDAI ensures Aadhaar data protection through advanced encryption technologies.
• Introduction of Virtual ID (VID) allows users to share temporary identification for added security.
• Users are advised to use masked Aadhaar for non-governmental purposes to safeguard sensitive details.

Challenges and Controversies Around Aadhaar

• Privacy Concerns: Criticisms regarding the potential misuse of personal data.
• Mandatory Linkage: Legal challenges and debates over linking Aadhaar with various services.
• Inclusion Issues: Marginalized communities may face barriers due to lack of access or documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Aadhaar Card

Q. Is Aadhaar mandatory?

While not mandatory for all services, it is essential for availing government subsidies and benefits.

Q. How secure is Aadhaar?

UIDAI employs advanced encryption and security protocols to safeguard your data.

Q. What if I lose my Aadhaar card?

You can download a digital copy (e-Aadhaar) anytime from the UIDAI portal.

Q. Can I hold multiple Aadhaar numbers?

No, each resident is assigned a unique Aadhaar number.

Q. How can I link Aadhaar to government schemes?

Follow the specific instructions provided by the scheme’s official portal.

Q. I have changed my mobile number. How can I update my new number in my Aadhaar card database?

To update your mobile number in Aadhaar, visit the nearest Aadhaar Update Center with your Aadhaar card and valid ID proof. Fill out the update form, complete biometric verification, pay ₹50, and your number will be updated within 7–10 days.

Q. How do I get the Aadhar card on a smart card if I have the paper version of the Aadhar card?

You can order the Aadhar PVC card directly from the UIDAI website by logging in with your Aadhar number and paying ₹50. Alternatively, download the e-Aadhar and get it printed on PVC at a local service center.

Q. I lost my Aadhar card. How can I get the same Aadhar card?

If you’ve lost your Aadhaar card, you can reprint it or download an e-Aadhaar online. Visit the UIDAI website, use your Aadhaar number, enrollment ID, or Virtual ID, verify with OTP, and download or order a reprint. You can also retrieve your Aadhaar number or enrollment ID if forgotten.

Q. How do I get the Aadhar card on a smart card if I have the paper version of Aadhar card?

To get your Aadhaar card on a smart card, you can laminate it yourself or purchase a PVC Aadhaar card through the official UIDAI website for a small fee. Visit uidai.gov.in for details and to place your order.

Q. How do I get an Aadhar card for an old, aged, bed-ridden person?

To get an Aadhaar card for a bedridden elderly person, contact UIDAI’s doorstep service or authorized agencies for home enrolment. They will collect biometrics at home, and the Aadhaar card will be delivered to your registered address.

Q. How do I get an Aadhar card for an old, aged, bed-ridden person?

To get an Aadhaar card for a bedridden person, request a home enrollment service by contacting your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. A representative will visit to collect biometric details, and the Aadhaar card will be generated after verification.

Latest Aadhar Card News & Updates:

Government Extends Aadhar Update Deadline to March 2025