17 Crore Aadhaar Records Pending Updates
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has raised concern over a massive backlog of biometric updates for nearly 17 crore schoolchildren. UIDAI CEO Bhuvanesh Kumar has written to all state and union territory chief secretaries, urging them to organise special Aadhaar update camps in schools. The biometric update is mandatory at ages five and fifteen.
Why Biometric Updates Are Crucial
Most Aadhaar cards issued to children are initially linked with their parents’ records. However, as children grow, their fingerprints and iris scans change, making biometric updates necessary to keep their Aadhaar valid and functional. Without updates, their access to government schemes, scholarships, and essential services could face disruptions.
Schools to Become Aadhaar Update Centres
To streamline this large-scale exercise, UIDAI has sought the cooperation of state education departments. Schools will act as primary centres for biometric updates. The Union Ministry of Education has integrated Aadhaar update data into its Unified District Information System of Education Plus (UDISE+), enabling district officials and school principals to track progress in real-time.
Easier Access Through School Camps
According to UIDAI, organising school-based update camps is a practical move, as it uses existing infrastructure while making the process easily accessible to students. The authority is working closely with states to roll out these camps from next month.
Ensuring Access to Government Benefits
Updating Aadhaar records is not just about identity authentication but also about ensuring seamless access to government schemes. With nearly 17 crore children yet to be covered, UIDAI’s proactive strategy aims to close the gap efficiently and strengthen the Aadhaar ecosystem across the country.