Aadhaar Card: Features, Objectives and Uses

The Aadhaar Card is one of India's most significant identity documents. It helps residents access a wide range of services and benefits, both from the government and private sectors. Managed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the Aadhaar system assigns a unique 12-digit number to each individual based on their biometric and demographic data. Let’s explore what Aadhaar is, its objectives, who is eligible, and how it is used across the country.

What is Aadhaar Card?

Aadhaar is a unique identity number issued by UIDAI to every Indian resident. It serves as proof of identity and address anywhere in India. The Aadhaar Card contains details such as the individual's name, gender, date of birth, address, and a 12-digit unique number. It also includes biometric information like fingerprints and iris scans.

Unlike a passport or voter ID, Aadhaar is not proof of citizenship. Instead, it is a digital identity that simplifies access to a wide range of public and private services.

Objectives of Aadhaar Card

The Aadhaar system was introduced with several key goals in mind:

• Inclusive identity: To provide every resident, including those without other ID documents, with a unique identity.

• Efficient service delivery: To reduce duplication and ensure targeted delivery of welfare schemes and subsidies.

• Financial inclusion: To help people access banking, insurance, and other financial services.

• Digital governance: To support e-governance initiatives and paperless verification.

• Reduce fraud: By linking identity to biometrics, Aadhaar helps prevent identity theft and fake beneficiaries.

Aadhaar Card Eligibility

Anyone who is a resident of India can apply for an Aadhaar Card. There is no age limit. Even new-borns and children can be enrolled, although their biometrics are updated later as they grow.

Eligibility criteria include:

• Indian residents (including infants and elderly citizens)

• Non-resident Indians (NRIs) residing in India for 182 days or more in the past 12 months

• Foreigners living in India can apply for Aadhaar only under specific conditions, subject to UIDAI guidelines

Benefits of Aadhaar Card

Aadhaar offers several practical advantages:

• Access to subsidies and benefits: Aadhaar is often used to receive LPG subsidies, food rations, pensions, and scholarships.

• Banking and financial services: Aadhaar simplifies the process of opening bank accounts and applying for financial products.

• Easy KYC: Aadhaar-based e-KYC helps verify identity quickly for telecom, mutual funds, and insurance.

• Digital life certificate: Pensioners can submit life certificates online using Aadhaar, avoiding the need to visit pension offices.

• Simplified documentation: Aadhaar is accepted as proof of identity and address for many public and private services.

Documents Required for Aadhaar Enrolment

To enrol for Aadhaar, you need to provide:

• Proof of identity (any one of the following): Passport, PAN card, voter ID, driving licence, etc.

• Proof of address: Utility bills, bank statement, passport, or rental agreement

• Proof of date of birth: Birth certificate, PAN card, passport, or school certificate

• For children: Birth certificate and Aadhaar of a parent or guardian

UIDAI also provides a list of valid documents online for reference.

How to Apply for Aadhaar Card

Follow these steps to apply for your Aadhaar:

1. Locate an enrolment centre: Visit the UIDAI website to find the nearest authorised centre.

2. Book an appointment (optional): Some centres allow online appointment scheduling.

3. Visit the centre: Carry original documents. Your photo, fingerprints, and iris scan will be taken.

4. Fill out the enrolment form: Submit your form and documents at the centre.

5. Receive acknowledgement slip: It contains your enrolment ID used to track status.

6. Download Aadhaar: Once generated, you can download an e-Aadhaar online using your enrolment ID or Aadhaar number.

The physical Aadhaar Card is also sent by post to your registered address.

Uses of Aadhaar Card in India

Aadhaar is used in various everyday services and schemes:

• Subsidy transfers: LPG subsidy and welfare benefits are directly credited to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts.

• PAN and income tax: Linking PAN with Aadhaar is mandatory for filing income tax returns.

• Digital verification: Aadhaar authentication is used for mobile SIM cards, e-KYC, and digital lockers.

• Scholarships and pensions: Educational and retirement benefits are often linked to Aadhaar for verification.

• Property transactions: Aadhaar is commonly required for property registrations and utility connections.

It supports the vision of a Digital India by enabling fast, secure, and paperless identity verification.

Conclusion

Aadhaar has transformed the way identity is established in India. It simplifies access to government schemes, banking services, and digital platforms. While it is not proof of citizenship, Aadhaar serves as a foundational ID that supports inclusion, transparency, and efficient governance. Applying for Aadhaar is straightforward, and its uses continue to expand across sectors.