In a significant move to ease financial burdens on families, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced that updating Aadhaar card details for children will now be free of charge. This decision is set to benefit millions of parents across India, particularly those with growing children who require regular updates to their biometric and demographic information. Here’s a detailed guide on what this means for parents and how to take advantage of this new policy.
Why Has the Fee Been Waived?
The Aadhaar card is a vital identification document for Indian citizens, including children. As children grow, their biometric data—such as fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs—undergoes significant changes. These updates are essential to maintain the accuracy and validity of their Aadhaar details. Previously, parents had to pay a nominal fee of ₹50 for these updates, which could be a financial strain for many families.
The UIDAI’s decision to eliminate the fee aligns with the government’s broader goal of making essential services more accessible and affordable. It also encourages parents to keep their children’s Aadhaar details current, ensuring seamless access to government schemes and benefits tied to the Aadhaar card.
What Updates Are Now Free?
Parents can now update the following details in their child’s Aadhaar card without incurring any charges:
1. Biometric Updates: Fingerprints and iris scans for children below 5 years are not initially captured. These details must be updated when the child turns 5 and again at 15.
2. Photograph Updates: Children’s appearances change rapidly, and their Aadhaar card photos must reflect their current look.
3. Demographic Updates: Changes in address, name, or other personal details can also be updated free of charge.
How to Update Your Child’s Aadhaar Details
The process for updating a child’s Aadhaar details remains simple. Follow these steps:
1. Visit an Aadhaar Enrollment Center: Locate the nearest center using the UIDAI website or mobile app.
2. Carry Required Documents: Bring proof of identity, proof of address, and the child’s birth certificate. For biometric updates, the child must be present.
3. Fill Out the Update Form: Complete the Aadhaar update form at the center or download it from the UIDAI website in advance.
4. Submit the Form: Hand over the form and documents to the center’s executive. You’ll receive an acknowledgment slip.
5. Track the Status: Use the UIDAI website or app to monitor the update request’s progress.
Key Benefits for Parents
The fee waiver offers several advantages:
– Cost Savings: Families, especially those with multiple children, can save money on Aadhaar updates.
– Encourages Compliance: With no financial barrier, parents are more likely to keep their children’s Aadhaar details current.
– Access to Benefits: Updated Aadhaar cards ensure children can access government schemes like mid-day meals, scholarships, and healthcare services without hassle.
What Parents Should Remember
While the fee waiver is a welcome change, keep these points in mind:
– Updates are mandatory at specific ages (5 and 15 years) to ensure biometric accuracy.
– Verify the updated details on the UIDAI website after the process is complete.
– Ensure all supporting documents are valid and up to date to avoid delays.
Conclusion
The UIDAI’s decision to waive the fee for updating children’s Aadhaar details is a thoughtful and inclusive step that prioritizes the needs of families. By removing financial barriers, the government is making it easier for parents to ensure their children’s Aadhaar cards remain accurate and functional. This move simplifies administrative processes and reinforces the importance of Aadhaar as a foundational identity document for every Indian citizen.
Parents are encouraged to take advantage of this new policy and keep their children’s Aadhaar details updated, ensuring they can fully benefit from the various services and schemes linked to this essential identity card.
