Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), a statutory authority established by the Government of India under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Aadhaar serves as a proof of identity and address for Indian residents and is one of the world's largest biometric identification systems.
Background:
The Aadhaar project was conceptualized by the Indian government in 2009 with the objective of providing a unique identity to every resident of India, including citizens and non-citizens. The initiative aimed to address issues of identity fraud, improve access to government services, and enable targeted delivery of welfare benefits and subsidies.
Key Features:
Unique Identification Number: Each Aadhaar number is unique and linked to an individual's biometric and demographic data, including fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs.
Biometric Authentication: Aadhaar authentication allows individuals to verify their identity using biometric or demographic information, enabling secure access to services and entitlements.
Universal Coverage: Aadhaar is intended to cover all residents of India, regardless of age, gender, or citizenship status. It is not mandatory but is widely used for various purposes, including opening bank accounts, obtaining SIM cards, and accessing government services.
Digital Identity: Aadhaar enables individuals to establish their identity digitally, facilitating paperless and online transactions, e-KYC (Know Your Customer) processes, and digital signatures.
Enrollment Process:
The Aadhaar enrollment process involves the collection of biometric and demographic information from individuals, including fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs. The data is stored securely in the UIDAI's Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) and used to generate unique Aadhaar numbers.
Enrollment centers are established across India to facilitate the Aadhaar registration process. Residents are required to provide proof of identity and address documents to enroll for Aadhaar.
Uses:
Aadhaar is used for a wide range of purposes in India, including:
Government Services: Aadhaar is linked to various government welfare schemes and subsidies, such as the Public Distribution System (PDS), LPG subsidy, and direct benefit transfers (DBT) for pensions and scholarships.
Financial Inclusion: Aadhaar is used for opening bank accounts, availing loans, and accessing financial services. It is also linked to the Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for digital transactions and payments.
Mobile Services: Aadhaar is required for obtaining mobile SIM cards and completing the e-KYC process for telecom service providers.
Identity Verification: Aadhaar is accepted as a proof of identity and address for various purposes, including passport applications, voter ID cards, and property transactions.
Privacy and Security:
The Aadhaar project has faced scrutiny over concerns related to privacy, data security, and potential misuse of biometric information. The UIDAI has implemented robust security measures, including encryption, biometric authentication, and data protection protocols, to safeguard Aadhaar data and prevent unauthorized access.
Legal Framework:
The Aadhaar project is governed by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016, which provides the legal framework for Aadhaar enrollment, authentication, and usage. The Act also establishes the UIDAI as the regulatory authority responsible for overseeing the Aadhaar ecosystem and enforcing compliance with Aadhaar-related laws and regulations.
Conclusion:
Aadhaar has emerged as a transformative initiative with far-reaching implications for governance, identity management, and service delivery in India. Despite challenges and controversies, Aadhaar continues to play a significant role in promoting inclusion, efficiency, and transparency in India's digital ecosystem, empowering millions of residents with a unique and secure digital identity.
