The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to launch a phased project in two months to update children’s biometrics through schools. UIDAI CEO Bhavesh Kumar revealed that over seven crore children have not yet completed their mandatory biometric updates for Aadhaar. This update becomes compulsory once a child turns five years old.
Kumar stated that UIDAI aims to ensure accuracy and reliability of biometric data by conducting these updates with parental consent through schools. He emphasized the importance of completing biometric updates on time, adding that failure to update even after the child turns seven could result in the deactivation of the Aadhaar number, as per current regulations.
While the biometric update is free if done between the ages of 5 and 7, a fee of ₹100 is applicable if updated after the child turns seven. The objective is to ensure uninterrupted Aadhaar access for services such as school admissions, entrance exam registrations, scholarships, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes wherever applicable.
Kumar further mentioned that UIDAI also plans to implement a second round of biometric updates in schools and colleges once children reach the age of 15.
Ensuring Timely Access to Benefits for Children
Currently, Aadhaar for infants and children below the age of five is issued without biometric data. Highlighting the necessity of Aadhaar for availing benefits under several government schemes, Kumar said, “We want children to receive all their benefits on time. Through schools, we are trying to make this facility accessible to as many children as possible.”
As part of this initiative, UIDAI will deploy biometric machines in every district, which will be moved from one school to another to ensure widespread coverage.
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