New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is set to launch a nationwide biometric update drive for children through schools in the next two months. This move aims to ensure that over 7 crore children, whose biometric details have not yet been updated in Aadhaar, complete the process in a seamless and accessible manner.
Mandatory Biometric Update After Age 5
As per UIDAI guidelines, biometric updates become mandatory once a child turns 5 years old. Children under 5 years are issued Aadhaar without biometric data. Failing to complete the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) before age 7 could result in deactivation of the Aadhaar number. Updates between ages 5–7 are free of cost, but a fee of ₹100 applies after age 7.
Technology Testing Underway
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar said the authority is currently testing the required technology and expects it to be ready in the next 45–60 days. The project will be rolled out in a phased manner, beginning with schools and later extended to colleges for the second round of updates, which are required once the child turns 15.
"Aadhaar is crucial for delivering benefits under several government schemes. We want children to get all the benefits at the right time. Through schools, we are trying to reach as many children in a convenient manner," UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar said.
District-Level Machine Deployment Planned
To implement the program, UIDAI will send biometric machines to each district, which will be rotated among schools to complete the updates efficiently. Parental consent will be a mandatory part of the process.
Aadhaar Needed for Seamless Access to Services
An Aadhaar with updated biometrics ensures uninterrupted access to essential services such as school admissions, scholarships, entrance exams, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes. UIDAI believes reaching children through schools is the most effective way to maximise coverage and convenience.
(With PTI Inputs)
