What is Aadhaar Card?

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions that many people have about Aadhaar Card. Here is all you need to know about what Aadhaar Card is and why you should get one.

In simple terms, Aadhaar Card is a identification card which is available to all citizens and residents of India. It is issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). This is the organisation that the Government of India has given the responsibility to oversee the administration of the system.

It has a 12 digit unique identification number for each individual. The number is intended to be a proof of address and proof of a person’s identity anywhere in India.

Who can have Aadhaar Card?

It is available to any individual who is an Indian resident, regardless of gender or age. Anybody can enrol and as long as your application successfully goes through the verification process, you will be issued with a card.

How long is Aadhaar valid for?

Each individual only needs to enrol once and it is absolutely free of cost. The card number that is issued during enrolment is completely unique and remains completely valid for life.

What are the benefits of Aadhaar?

As well as giving you a universally accepted proof of identity and address, the number will give complete security from fraud and identity theft. On top of this, you can link your card to banking services, secure cloud storage and use to access a range of government subsidies and benefits.

What Aadhaar is and what is isn’t

It’s only natural you have lots of questions about what an Aadhaar card is and what it isn’t. Here is some handy points to remember:

Aadhaar Card IS:

• a unique 12 digit identification number
• available to all, including children and infants
• open to all residents of India
• completely unique to each individual due to biometrics
• completely voluntary
• universally accepted for any identity-based document applications. For example, a passport or ration card
• For individuals, not families

Aadhaar card ISN’T:

• mandatory
• for each family (it is for each individual)
• just another ID card
• a way to collect profiling information about Indian residents
• a replacement for other forms of ID
• accessible to public or private agencies

So, it is important to remember the following key points. For example:

• it is easy to apply and be verified for a card
• the application process ensures that the large number of fake and duplicate identities in databases will be eliminated
• the number is randomly generated. It is related to any sort of classification: creed, religion, location, etc.
• it offers increased protection against fraudulent activity

What makes Aadhaar unique?

There are already various types of formal documentation that are widely accepted as proofs of identity and address, so what is different about the Aaadhaar card?

Well, although it’s important to remember that the card is not designed to replace any other form of identification, it is quite different from these existing documents. For example:

• it contains biometric information – fingerprints and retina scan
• it is absolutely unique to each individual
• it is fraud proof and prevents misuse of a person’s identity

Why should I get one?

Well, the reasons have already been covered in this article. As well as the obvious benefits of increased personal security and protection of fraud, the Aadhaar card is the best and the preferred proof of identity across India – because it is unique and secure. It is also the easiest and most convenient way to access government and non-government subsidies.

The application process is simple and straightforward too. There really isn’t a good reason for you not to apply.