Aadhaar Card: In today’s world, the Aadhaar card has become an essential document, much like your ID proof. It’s needed for a variety of tasks, from purchasing a SIM card to opening a bank account, enrolling in schools and colleges, and even for business purposes.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) issues a 12-digit Aadhaar card that includes your biometric information, name, address, date of birth, and more. This card also allows you to access various government services.
Every Indian citizen is required to have an Aadhaar card, and UIDAI even provides them for newborns. For infants, the Aadhaar card is created using the birth discharge certificate and the parents’ Aadhaar cards. However, it’s crucial to update children’s Aadhaar cards when they reach the ages of 5 and 15. Failing to do so can lead to several issues.
So, why is it important to update children’s Aadhaar cards at these ages? What problems might arise if updates are neglected? What’s the process for updating a child’s Aadhaar card, and are there any fees involved?
Why is updating children’s Aadhaar cards necessary?
According to UIDAI guidelines, children must undergo biometric updates for their Aadhaar cards twice: once at age 5 and again at age 15. This procedure is known as Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU), where the child’s photo, fingerprint, and iris scan are re-recorded. This update is vital to ensure the Aadhaar card remains valid and to prevent future complications.
Why the update at age 5?
Children under 5 years old do not have their biometrics taken for the Aadhaar card; instead, their Aadhaar is based on their parents’ documents, which is why it’s referred to as Baal Aadhaar. Once the child turns 5, it becomes necessary to update their fingerprint and iris scan.
Why another update at age 15?
As children grow, their physical characteristics change, including their biometrics. Therefore, it’s essential to update the Aadhaar card again at this age.
How much do two updates cost?
Updating Aadhaar when your child is 5 and 15 years old is completely free. You can do this by heading to the nearest Aadhaar center. However, if you’re looking to fix any errors on the Aadhaar card, there might be a small fee involved.
What issues could arise if the update isn’t done?
Failing to update your child’s Aadhaar card could lead to challenges when trying to enroll in schools or colleges. It might also create hurdles when applying for competitive exams or accessing government benefits. Additionally, opening a bank account could become problematic.
Where can you update your child’s Aadhaar?
1. To update, visit the UIDAI website at https://uidai.gov.in/.
2. Click on the ‘Locate Enrollment Center’ option.
3. Input your state, district, and pin code.
4. You’ll then receive details about the closest Aadhaar center.
How is Aadhaar updated?
1. Visit the nearest Aadhaar center with your child’s old Aadhaar card, along with the parents’ Aadhaar cards and any other required documents.
2. At the center, the child’s fingerprint, iris scan, and a new photo will be taken. You’ll need to fill out a small form for the Aadhaar update, providing the current information.
3. Once everything is verified, submit your application. After the update process is complete, you’ll receive a receipt that allows you to check the status of your Aadhaar update later.