Indian citizens and foreign residents who have lived in India for over 182 days in the preceding year can obtain an Aadhaar, which is a 12-digit unique identity number based on their biometric and demographic information.
FAQs About Aadhaar, The Unique Identity Number in India
Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number for Indian citizens and foreign residents who have lived in India for more than 182 days in the 12 months before the application for enrollment. It is a biometric and demographic identification system that was introduced in 2009 by the Indian government with the aim of creating a universal identity infrastructure that would make it easier for people to access government services and benefits.
What Is Aadhaar?
Aadhaar is a unique identification system that assigns a 12-digit number to individuals based on their biometric and demographic information. The system collects the individual’s photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan, along with basic information such as name, date of birth, and gender. The data is then stored in a centralized database and used to create a unique identity number that can be used to access government services and benefits.
Who Can Get an Aadhaar?
Indian citizens and foreign residents who have lived in India for more than 182 days in the 12 months before the application for enrollment can freely receive an Aadhaar. The system is voluntary, but many government programs and services require an Aadhaar number for access, so it is recommended that all eligible individuals enroll in the program.
How Do You Enroll for Aadhaar?
To enroll for Aadhaar, you must visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center and provide your biometric and demographic information. The enrollment process involves capturing your photograph, fingerprints, and iris scan, along with basic information such as name, date of birth, and gender. You will then be issued a 12-digit unique identity number, which will be sent to you via SMS or email.
What Can You Use Aadhaar For?
Aadhaar can be used for a variety of purposes, including accessing government services and benefits, opening a bank account, or getting a mobile phone connection. Many government programs and services require an Aadhaar number for access, including subsidies for food, fuel, and cooking gas, as well as access to health care, education, and employment. Aadhaar can also be used as a means of identification for travel and other purposes, similar to a passport or national ID card.
Is Aadhaar Safe?
Aadhaar has faced criticism over concerns about privacy, security, and data protection. However, the government has taken steps to address these concerns, including the establishment of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), which is responsible for overseeing the Aadhaar program, and the introduction of strict data privacy and security regulations. Despite these efforts, concerns about Aadhaar’s safety and security remain, and it is important for individuals to take steps to protect their personal information and be aware of the risks associated with Aadhaar.
The decision
Aadhaar is a unique identification system that has been introduced by the Indian government to provide a universal identity infrastructure that would make it easier for people to access government services and benefits. The system assigns a 12-digit unique identity number based on an individual’s biometric and demographic information and is voluntary but is needed for many government programs and services. Critics of the system have raised concerns about privacy, security, and data protection, but the government has taken steps to address these concerns. Astonishingly, Aadhaar has the potential to be an important tool for improving access to government programs and services and creating a more efficient and effective system of governance in India.
