What is Aadhaar Card?
Aadhaar card is a unique identification number that is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It is a 12-digit number that serves as a proof of identity and address throughout India. The Aadhaar card contains biometric and demographic details of the cardholder, including their photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan. The card is linked to the cardholder’s Aadhaar number, which is used to access various government services and schemes, such as bank accounts, passport applications, and subsidy schemes.
The Aadhaar card was introduced to facilitate the delivery of government services to the citizens of India, and it is considered to be the world’s largest biometric identification system. The card is also used for authentication purposes, where the cardholder’s biometric data is matched with the data in the UIDAI database to confirm their identity.
To apply for an Aadhaar card, one needs to visit an Aadhaar enrolment center and provide their biometric and demographic details. After the verification process is completed, the Aadhaar card is issued to the applicant. Overall, the Aadhaar card is an important identification document that has made it easier for Indian citizens to access various government services and schemes.
Benefits of Aadhaar card
There are several benefits of having an Aadhaar card, which is a unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). Some of the key benefits are:
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar card serves as a valid proof of identity throughout India. It contains biometric and demographic details of the cardholder, which makes it a reliable form of identification.
- Address Proof: Aadhaar card also serves as a valid proof of address. This can be used for various purposes, such as opening a bank account or applying for a passport.
- Government Services: Aadhaar card is mandatory for accessing various government services and schemes, such as subsidies for LPG, food grains, and scholarships. It also helps in quick and hassle-free processing of documents like PAN card and passport.
- Financial Transactions: Aadhaar card is linked to the cardholder’s bank account and is used for various financial transactions, such as opening a bank account, getting loans, and making payments online.
- Mobile SIM Card: Aadhaar card is mandatory for obtaining a new mobile SIM card in India.
- Digital Locker: The Government of India provides a digital locker service, where citizens can store their important documents online. Aadhaar card is mandatory for signing up for this service.
- Employment Opportunities: Some employers use Aadhaar card as a means of verifying the identity of their employees.
Eligibility Criteria for Aadhaar card
Any resident of India can apply for an Aadhaar card, irrespective of their age or gender. The eligibility criteria for Aadhaar card are:
- Residency: The applicant should be a resident of India. Foreigners residing in India for more than 182 days in the preceding 12 months are also eligible to apply for Aadhaar.
- Age: There is no minimum age requirement to apply for an Aadhaar card. Even newborn babies can apply for Aadhaar.
- Biometric Details: The applicant should be able to provide their biometric details, which includes their photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan.
- Valid Documents: The applicant should have valid documents to support their identity and address, such as a PAN card, passport, driving license, or utility bills.
E-Aadhaar Download Online
E-Aadhaar is a digital version of the Aadhaar card that can be downloaded online from the UIDAI website. To download E-Aadhaar, follow these steps:
- Visit the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Click on “Download Aadhaar” from the “My Aadhaar” drop-down menu.
- Select the appropriate option to download E-Aadhaar. You can download it using your Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID or Virtual ID.
- Enter the required details such as Aadhaar number, Enrolment ID or Virtual ID, name, pin code, and image captcha.
- Click on “Get One Time Password” (OTP) button. An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number.
- Enter the OTP and click on “Download Aadhaar” button.
- Your E-Aadhaar will be downloaded in a PDF format. The PDF file will be password protected and the password will be your pin code.
Once you have downloaded your E-Aadhaar, you can print it and use it as a valid proof of identity and address. It is important to note that E-Aadhaar is as valid as the physical Aadhaar card, and can be used for various purposes such as applying for a passport, getting a mobile SIM card, or opening a bank account.
To apply for an Aadhaar card
- Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. You can find the nearest enrolment center by visiting the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Fill in the enrolment form with your personal details such as name, address, date of birth, mobile number, email ID, etc. You will also need to provide supporting documents for identity and address proof.
- Once the form is filled, submit it to the enrolment officer along with the supporting documents.
- The enrolment officer will verify your documents and capture your biometric details, such as your photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan.
- Once the enrolment process is complete, the enrolment officer will give you an acknowledgement slip with your enrolment ID.
- Your Aadhaar card will be generated and sent to your address via post within 60-90 days.
It is important to note that Aadhaar enrolment is free of cost. However, if you need to update or make any corrections in your Aadhaar card details, you may need to pay a nominal fee. You can also check the status of your Aadhaar card online by visiting the UIDAI website and entering your enrolment ID.
Helpline Number of Aadhaar card
The UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) has a helpline number to assist individuals with their Aadhaar-related queries and grievances. The helpline number is 1947, which is a toll-free number and can be accessed from anywhere in India. The helpline is available 24×7 and can be used to:
- Get general information about Aadhaar card.
- Get information about the enrolment process.
- Check the status of your Aadhaar card.
- Update or correct Aadhaar card details.
- Report grievances or complaints related to Aadhaar card.
In addition to the helpline number, individuals can also contact the UIDAI through email at help@uidai.gov.in or visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre for assistance. The UIDAI website also provides a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) and answers to common Aadhaar-related queries.
Aadhaar Card Correction Online
Aadhaar card correction can be done online through the UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) website. Follow these steps to make corrections in your Aadhaar card details online:
- Visit the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Click on “Update Your Aadhaar” from the “My Aadhaar” drop-down menu.
- On the next page, click on “Update Demographics Data Online” or “Update Address Online” depending on the information you want to correct.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and the text verification code and click on “Send OTP” button.
- An OTP (One Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP and click on “Login” button.
- On the next page, select the field that you want to update and enter the correct information.
- Upload the scanned copy of the supporting document (if required).
- Review the changes and click on “Submit” button.
- A URN (Update Request Number) will be generated. You can use this number to track the status of your update request.
It is important to note that some fields, such as name, date of birth, and gender, may require supporting documents for verification. You can also make corrections in your Aadhaar card details by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. In case of any difficulties, you can contact the UIDAI helpline number at 1947 or send an email to help@uidai.gov.in.
Aadhaar Card Update Online
To update your Aadhaar card details online, follow these steps:
- Visit the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Click on “Update Your Aadhaar” from the “My Aadhaar” drop-down menu.
- On the next page, click on “Update Demographics Data Online” or “Update Address Online” depending on the information you want to update.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and the text verification code and click on “Send OTP” button.
- An OTP (One Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP and click on “Login” button.
- On the next page, select the field that you want to update and enter the correct information.
- Upload the scanned copy of the supporting document (if required).
- Review the changes and click on “Submit” button.
- A URN (Update Request Number) will be generated. You can use this number to track the status of your update request.
It is important to note that some fields, such as name, date of birth, and gender, may require supporting documents for verification. You can also make corrections in your Aadhaar card details by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. In case of any difficulties, you can contact the UIDAI helpline number at 1947 or send an email to help@uidai.gov.in.
Mobile Number Update in Aadhar Card
Updating your mobile number in your Aadhaar card can be done online or offline. Here are the steps to update your mobile number online:
- Visit the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
- Click on “Update Your Aadhaar” from the “My Aadhaar” drop-down menu.
- On the next page, click on “Update Demographics Data Online”.
- Enter your Aadhaar number and the text verification code and click on “Send OTP” button.
- An OTP (One Time Password) will be sent to your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP and click on “Login” button.
- On the next page, select “Mobile Number” and enter the correct mobile number that you want to update.
- Click on “Submit” button and verify the details.
- A URN (Update Request Number) will be generated. You can use this number to track the status of your update request.
Alternatively, you can update your mobile number in your Aadhaar card by visiting the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre. You need to carry a self-attested copy of your Aadhaar card and an identity proof document. Fill in the Aadhaar update form and provide your new mobile number. The executive at the enrolment centre will take your biometric details for authentication and provide an acknowledgement receipt with an update request number. It may take up to 90 days for the mobile number to get updated in your Aadhaar card.