Important Keyword: Aadhaar, Aadhaar KYC.

Aadhaar Card: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction to Aadhaar Card

Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on behalf of the Government of India. It serves as proof of identity and address anywhere in India. Both the physical Aadhaar letter received via India Post and the e-Aadhaar downloaded from the UIDAI website are equally valid.

Eligibility

Any resident individual, regardless of age, gender, caste, or religion, can obtain an Aadhaar card. Enrollment is free of cost, and each individual can enroll only once. The Aadhaar number allotted will remain unique and valid for life.

Aadhaar Card Enrollment Process

Enrollment Centers

Currently, Aadhaar enrollment is limited to designated enrollment centers. To obtain an Aadhaar card, individuals must personally visit any authorized enrollment center in India with proof of identity and address. The list of enrollment centers can be found here.

Appointment and Documents

• Online Appointment: Appointments for Aadhaar enrollment can be booked online. However, physical presence at the enrollment center is mandatory.
• Proof of Identity and Address: UIDAI accepts 18 types of Proof of Identity (PoI) and 33 types of Proof of Address (PoA) documents. Commonly accepted documents include:
  • Election photo ID card
  • Ration card
  • Passport
  • Driving license
  • PAN card
  • Government-issued ID cards
  • Utility bills (water, electricity, telephone) from the last three months
  • Certificate of Identity with photo issued by a Gazetted Officer/Tehsildar
  • Certificate of Address with photo issued by MP/MLA/Gazetted Officer/Tehsildar or Village Panchayat head (for rural areas)

Enrollment Procedure

1. Visit an Enrollment Center: Go to any authorized Aadhaar enrollment center with your identity and address proofs.
2. Fill in Personal Details: Complete the enrollment form with your personal details.
3. Biometric Data Collection: Your photo, fingerprints, and iris scan will be taken.
4. Review and Corrections: Review the details you have provided and make any necessary corrections during the enrollment process.
5. Acknowledgment Slip: You will receive an acknowledgment slip with a temporary enrollment number and other details captured during enrollment.

Enrollment Timelines

There is no deadline for the Aadhaar enrollment process. Resident individuals can enroll at any time that is convenient for them at the designated centers.

Advantages of Aadhaar

1. Widespread Recognition: Aadhaar is widely recognized and accepted across India by various service providers.
2. Universal Identity Infrastructure: It creates a universal identity infrastructure that governments and other service providers can use to build applications and facilitate different processes.
3. Streamlined Customer Identification: Aadhaar acts as a bridge between individuals and service agencies, eliminating the need for repeated KYC (Know Your Customer) checks.
4. Ease of Access to Services: Service providers can offer services without requiring multiple identification documents. This includes opening bank accounts, obtaining passports, and getting driving licenses.
5. Empowerment of the Underprivileged: Aadhaar empowers poor and underprivileged residents by providing access to formal banking and other government and private sector services.

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