Single Window For All Aadhaar Linkages May Help

Even though Aadhaar is in the eye of a storm over privacy issues, government is keen to resolve them

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Aadhaar was born in 2009, when the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) was established. At that time, no one could have imagined that nearly a decade later it would become a critical document of identity in our day-to-day life.

What is Aadhaar?

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identity number issued to an individual based on biometric and demographic data. It is covered under the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 (‘The Act’).

Who is eligible?

Every resident in India is entitled to obtain an Aadhaar ID by undergoing the process of enrolment. The term ‘resident’ under the Act means an individual who has resided in India for 182 days or more during the 12 months immediately preceding the date of application for enrolment. This means even foreign nationals can obtain an Aadhaar ID once they stay in India for 182 days within a span of 12 months.

is it mandatory?

The Act merely provides as to who is entitled to obtain Aadhaar; it does not make it mandatory. However, various agencies (RBI, SEBI, tax authorities, DOT etc) have made it mandatory to quote/ link one’s Aadhaar number, which in turn makes it compulsory for the individuals to obtain it. The table (See: Show your card) shows various significant transactions where one is required to quote their Aadhaar number.

Challenges and issues