In this article, we will discuss the meaning and full form of UIDAI, the Unique Identification Authority of India. UIDAI is a government agency responsible for issuing and managing the Aadhaar card, a unique identification number that serves as a proof of identity and address for Indian citizens.
Introduction
The UIDAI was established in 2009 under the provisions of the Aadhaar Act, which was passed by the Indian parliament. The agency operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.
What is UIDAI?
The UIDAI is responsible for collecting, verifying, and storing biometric and demographic information of Indian residents. This information is used to issue Aadhaar cards, which contain a unique 12-digit identification number that is linked to the individual’s biometric and demographic data.
Objectives of UIDAI
The main objectives of UIDAI are as follows:
1. To provide a unique identification number to every resident of India
The UIDAI aims to provide a unique identification number to every resident of India, regardless of their citizenship status. This number serves as a proof of identity and address and is linked to the individual’s biometric and demographic data.
2. To eliminate duplicate and fake identities
One of the main objectives of UIDAI is to eliminate duplicate and fake identities. By collecting and verifying biometric and demographic information, the agency can ensure that every individual is issued only one Aadhaar card.
3. To facilitate the delivery of public services
The UIDAI aims to facilitate the delivery of public services by providing a reliable and secure method of authentication.
Aadhaar cardholders can use their unique identification number to access a range of government services, including subsidies, pensions, and bank accounts.
4. To promote financial inclusion
UIDAI also aims to promote financial inclusion by making it easier for individuals to open bank accounts and access credit.
By providing a unique identification number, Aadhaar makes it easier for banks and other financial institutions to verify the identity of their customers.
How does UIDAI work?
The UIDAI collects biometric and demographic information from residents of India through a network of enrollment centers. Once the information is collected, it is verified and authenticated before an Aadhaar card is issued to the individual.
The biometric information collected by UIDAI includes fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs, while the demographic information includes name, age, gender, and address.
Benefits of Aadhaar card
The Aadhaar card has several benefits for Indian citizens, including:
1. Proof of identity and address
The Aadhaar card serves as a proof of identity and address, which is necessary for accessing a range of government services.
2. Access to government services
Aadhaar cardholders can use their unique identification number to access a range of government services, including subsidies, pensions, and bank accounts.
3. Financial inclusion
Aadhaar makes it easier for individuals to open bank accounts and access credit, promoting financial inclusion.
4. Digital identity
The Aadhaar card can be used as a digital identity to verify the identity of individuals for online transactions and services.
Conclusion
The UIDAI is an important government agency responsible for issuing and managing Aadhaar cards, which serve as a proof of identity and address for Indian citizens.
The agency’s main objectives are to provide a unique identification number to every resident of India, eliminate duplicate and fake identities, facilitate the delivery of public services, and promote financial inclusion.
FAQs
- Who is eligible for Aadhaar card?
- Any resident of India, regardless of their citizenship status, is eligible for Aadhaar card.
- Is Aadhaar card mandatory for accessing government services?
- Aadhaar card is not mandatory for accessing government services, but it is highly recommended as it simplifies the process and makes it more secure.
- Can foreigners apply for Aadhaar card?
- Foreigners can apply for Aadhaar card only if they have resided in India for a period of 182 days or more in the preceding 12 months.
- Is Aadhaar card linked to bank accounts?
- Yes, Aadhaar card can be linked to bank accounts, which makes it easier for individuals to access financial services.
- Is the data collected by UIDAI secure?
- The data collected by UIDAI is highly secure and is protected by multiple layers of security, including encryption and biometric authentication. The agency has also implemented strict privacy policies and guidelines to ensure the protection of individual’s data.