The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is a statutory authority under the Government of India. Established in January 2009 UIDAI was created with the mission to issue a unique identification number called Aadhaar to all residents of India. The primary objective of UIDAI is to provide every Indian resident with a verifiable and portable identity that is free of duplication and can be used to access various government and private services.

UIDAI operates under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Over the years Aadhaar has become the world’s largest biometric identification system covering more than 1.3 billion individuals.

UIDAI – Unique Identification Authority of India Services

 

The Purpose Behind Aadhaar

UIDAI issues 12 digit Unique Identification Number (UID) to the residents of India with the objectives given below:-

• To provide a unique identification to all the residents of the country and eliminate fake and duplicate identities.
• To verify and authenticate the identity in an easy and effective manner.

How UIDAI Collects Data

UIDAI enrolls residents through a nationwide network of Aadhaar Enrolment Centers. The process involves capturing:

• Demographic data: Name, date of birth, gender, address, mobile number, and email (optional).
• Biometric data: Fingerprints (10) iris scans (2) and facial photograph.

The data is securely stored and encrypted in UIDAI’s Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) which ensures data privacy and protection through multiple security layers.

Major Functions of UIDAI

UIDAI performs several essential tasks to ensure that Aadhaar remains a trustworthy identity platform. Some of its key functions include:

1. Aadhaar Enrolment and Updates

UIDAI manages and supervises the entire Aadhaar enrolment process and allows users to update their details such as name, mobile number, or address through both online and offline channels.

2. Authentication Services

UIDAI offers authentication services that verify identity through Aadhaar in real-time. These services are used by banks, telecom companies, insurance providers, and government schemes to validate users before providing services.

3. Ensuring Security and Privacy

One of UIDAI’s core responsibilities is maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of resident data. It follows strict data protection protocols and audits its systems regularly to prevent breaches or misuse.

4. Grievance Redressal

UIDAI provides a user-friendly grievance redressal system. Residents can contact UIDAI via toll-free numbers, email, or by visiting the official website for support regarding Aadhaar services.

Key Services Offered by UIDAI

UIDAI provides a wide range of services to residents which are accessible through the mAadhaar app myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in or physical service centers. Here are some of the top services:

Aadhaar Enrolment

Residents who have not enrolled can visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or enrolment center with proof of identity and address to complete their Aadhaar registration.

Aadhaar Download

After enrolment, users can download an e-Aadhaar copy from the UIDAI website using their Aadhaar number enrolment ID or Virtual ID.

Mobile Number & Email Linking

For availing of many online services it is essential to link your mobile number with Aadhaar. UIDAI allows mobile updates via OTP-based authentication at authorized centers.

Aadhaar PVC Card

UIDAI provides the option to order a durable, pocket-sized PVC Aadhaar card online for ₹50, which contains a digitally signed QR code for quick offline verification.

Virtual ID (VID) Generation

VID is a temporary, revocable 16-digit number that can be used in place of Aadhaar for authentication. It enhances privacy and reduces the risk of identity misuse.

Benefits of UIDAI and Aadhaar Integration

Financial Inclusion

Aadhaar has been instrumental in providing banking services to previously unbanked populations. The JAM Trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) enables direct benefit transfer (DBT), subsidies, and welfare delivery efficiently.

Streamlined Government Services

Linking Aadhaar to services such as LPG subsidies, MGNREGA wages, and pensions has reduced fraudulent claims. It ensures only genuine beneficiaries receive aid.

Ease of Verification

Aadhaar-based eKYC has made onboarding for telecom services, insurance, and banking faster, paperless, and more secure.

Digital India Push

UIDAI supports the Digital India mission by providing a secure digital identity. Aadhaar-linked platforms enable online transactions, digital signatures, and e-governance initiatives.

Recent Updates from UIDAI

Face Authentication Launched

UIDAI has rolled out face authentication as an additional mode of verifying identity. This complements fingerprint and iris-based authentication and is especially helpful for elderly users.

New mAadhaar Features

The updated mAadhaar app now supports multiple Aadhaar profiles offline verification through QR code, and status checks for PVC card orders or updates.

Document Update Reminder

UIDAI has urged Aadhaar holders who were enrolled 10+ years ago to update their documents. This step ensures continued validity and reduces authentication errors.

How to Contact UIDAI

For any Aadhaar-related queries or assistance, residents can reach UIDAI through the following channels:

• Toll-Free Number: 1947 (available 24/7)
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://uidai.gov.in
• Grievance Portal: https://pgportal.gov.in

You can also visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra or Common Services Centre (CSC) for offline services and support.