Aadhaar Full Form & Meaning
Aadhaar is managed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), established on 12 July 2016 under the Aadhaar Act 2016. UIDAI issues 12-digit Unique Identification (UID) numbers called “Aadhaar” to all residents of India.
Aadhaar acts as a valid proof of identity and address, making it easier for people to access various services such as banking, telecom, education, healthcare, and more. Aadhaar is linked to a biometric database that securely stores fingerprints and iris scans of individuals for accurate identification.
Who is Eligible to Obtain Aadhaar?
- An Indian resident living in India.
- A Non-Resident Indian (NRI) currently residing in India.
- An OCI cardholder (Overseas Citizen of India) with a valid foreign passport, who has stayed in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months.
Note: Aadhaar is a free and voluntary service designed to provide a unique and verifiable identity to every resident of India. Remember, it is not proof of citizenship and does not grant any special rights or privileges to the person holding it.
What are the Benefits of Aadhaar?
- Signing Documents Online: Aadhaar enables you to sign documents electronically using e-sign services, which are secure and legally valid.
- Unique and Secure Identification: The 12-digit Aadhaar number is unique to every resident, cannot be duplicated, and uses biometric data for secure authentication.
- Opening a Bank Account Easily: With Aadhaar, you can open a bank account without the need for additional documents, simplifying the process.
- Quick Passport Application: Aadhaar speeds up the passport application process by serving as proof of identity, address, and date of birth.
- Universal Proof of Identity: Aadhaar is widely accepted as proof of identity, address, and age by organizations across India.
- Helping Those Without ID Proof: Aadhaar allows individuals without prior ID proof, like the poor or marginalized, to enroll using the introducer system, giving them access to essential services.
- Accessing Government Benefits: Aadhaar is linked to schemes like provident funds, LPG subsidies, and scholarships, ensuring direct and hassle-free delivery of benefits.
