Aadhaar is a unique 12-digit identity number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on behalf of the Government of India. Aadhaar is for individuals, therefore a number issued to an individual shall not be reassigned to any other individual. Aadhaar is based on biometric and demographic data. Hence, the Aadhar number serves as proof of identity and address anywhere in India.
The process for Aadhaar enrolment of a resident of the country involves biometric (photograph, iris-scan, fingerprints) and demographic data of residents (residence address information). An Aadhaar number is a unique and no resident can have a duplicate number since it is linked to their individual biometrics.
You can also apply for an Aadhar. As per the Aadhaar enrolment and update regulations, 2016 here is a list of information an individual needs to provide during Aadhaar enrolment process for demographic and biometric information.
Demographic information required:
- Name
- D.O.B (Date of Birth)
- Gender
- Address
- Parent/Guardian details (required for minor)
- Contact details phone and email (optional
Biometric Information required:
- Photo
- 10 fingerprints
- Iris
Aadhaar number free of cost and can be used while opening a bank account, applying for a passport, booking e-tickets and many other places where there is a need to establish identity. It is valid for the full life of an individual and you do not need to change or renew your Aadhaar from time-to-time.
Under the Chairmanship of Shri N. Vittal, UIDAI set up the Demographic data standards and verification procedure committee to define the data fields to be collected by the UIDAI and the verification process to be followed. And under the Chairmanship of Dr B.K Gairola (Director General, National Informatics Centre), UIDAI also set up the Biometrics standards committee to define the standards and the nature of biometric data that is required to be captured.
