As Indians, we hear the word “Aadhaar” every now and then. We all have some understanding of it since it serves as a form of identification, but we frequently ponder on what an Aadhaar card is all about. Each and every citizen of the nation is given an Aadhaar card, which contains a unique identification number. It must be submitted as one of the most significant documents for a multitude of reasons. It is mandatory for all Indian citizens to have an Aadhaar card since it serves as identity documentation. Anyone who fails to submit ID proof for Aadhaar card or does not have one may be subject to restrictions on a range of activities.
Aadhaar card: An overview
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), on behalf of the Indian Government, issues an Aadhaar, a modern document with a 12-digit unique identification number, to every single resident of India based on their biometric and demographic data. Aadhaar is a biometric identification that the government uses to save your personal information. Aadhaar is regarded as a single-point identification document and cannot be used in place of a passport, PAN, driver’s license, or any other legal identification document. It is granted to Indian citizens based on their biometric and demographic information.
This one-of-a-kind number is generated by fusing a person’s demographic data, such as address and date of birth, with biometric information, such as fingerprints and iris scans. An Aadhaar is valid for life after enrollment. Since Aadhaar is a random number without any intelligence, it does not profile people based on their religion, caste, wealth, location, or state of health.
- The uniqueness of the Aadhaar card number prevents identity fraud and duplication.
- Multiple government-run welfare programs and initiatives can be accessed via it.
- Transparency is prompted by Aadhaar cards.
Aadhaar – Bringing “Digital India” to life
The overall purpose of UIDAI is to offer effective administration, and well-organized, transparent, and targeted distribution of subsidies, aids, and services to Indian citizens, the costs of which are borne by the Combined Fund of India through the issuance of unique identity numbers. One of the fundamental cornerstones of the government’s project, “Digital India,” in which each citizen of the nation is given a distinct identity, is the novel concept that Aadhaar is a significant platform of identity. Its degree of uniqueness is sufficient to eliminate all duplicates and false identities and forged documents. It can be used as the primary identifier to launch a variety of government welfare initiatives for better service distribution, thereby confirming perfect transparency and sound governance.
The importance of Aadhaar concerning the aim of UIDAI can be summed up as follows:
- Identification document
Although it is not a citizenship certificate, Aadhaar is a legitimate and certified identity card that is recognized by all governmental and non-governmental organizations. It includes biometric information, such as fingerprint and iris scans, as well as a QR code that can be scanned to verify the information.
- Proof of age, address, and identity
For services like house loans, investments, financial and non-financial services, personal loans, buying and selling of properties and assets, and even for ITR, it is a legitimate identification, age, address, and date of birth verification.
- Opening bank accounts
Your Aadhaar card can be used as one of the fundamental credentials of KYC, or Know Your Customer, for reasons of identity and authentication. When processing service requests like opening a bank account, banks and financial institutions accept the Aadhaar Card as legitimate identification with a photo and proof of address.
- Income tax
Making the linking of PAN cards with Aadhaar a required procedure was one of the best measures the government has taken to curb black money. Linking Aadhaar to PAN and filing an ITR application are mandatory requirements set forth by the Income Tax Department for Indian taxpayers.
- Notion of transparency
Aadhaar was introduced with the goal of enhancing efficiency, good governance, transparency, and the effective fulfillment of targeted distribution of subsidies, services, and benefits. All such expenses for each Indian citizen must be paid for by the Consolidated Fund of India using their unique identification number.
- Confidentiality of identity
The security and confidentiality of identification are guaranteed since biometrics are used for all verification and authentication operations.
Required documents for Aadhaar card
ID proof for Aadhaar Card requires the applicant to provide proof of identification, residence, and age. The following documents can be used for the enrollment process:
Proof of Address:
- Voter ID Card
- Passport
- Ration Card
- Driving License
Proof of Identity:
- Pan Card
- Birth Certificate
Proof of Age:
- Passport
- SSC Certificate or University Marksheet
- Birth Certificate
- PAN Card
ID proof for Aadhaar card also requires biometric information to be submitted in addition to these documents –
- Iris scan
- Fingerprints
- Photo
Postscript
The Aadhaar card offers a portable, ubiquitous, and universal identification solution. For a variety of private and governmental services, it serves as verification of identity and address. The documentation needed for ID proof for Aadhaar card is straightforward and uncomplicated.
Having an Aadhaar would be beneficial to take given the many uses, perks, and importance of the card as well as its rising recognition. As responsible Indian citizens, let’s work to make this nation a well-run, technologically advanced nation by adopting and utilizing Aadhaar Cards.
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FAQs
How long is an Aadhaar card valid?
Aadhaar cards are valid for lifetime.
Do I have to link my PAN card to my Aadhaar?
Yes, the Indian government has made it compulsory to link your PAN card to your Aadhaar in order to file your income tax returns.
How to apply for an Aadhaar card for children?
Even newborn babies and children can readily obtain an Aadhaar card. The child must be taken to the closest Aadhaar enrolling facility by the guardian or parents. They must also submit their Aadhaar number and the child’s birth certificate. The Aadhaar of the child’s guardian will be linked to the child’s Aadhaar.
Can NRIs apply for an Aadhaar card?
Yes, an NRI can enroll for an Aadhaar Card at any Aadhaar Seva Kendra in the nation if they have a valid Indian passport. The documentation requirements for NRIs are the same as for Indian citizens.
