4 Types of Aadhaar Issued by UIDAI
In the age of digitalization and government initiatives aimed at streamlining processes and enhancing security, the Aadhaar card has emerged as a pivotal identification document for every Indian citizen, including children. Administered by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number that plays a pivotal role in accessing myriad services, spanning from banking to mobile phone connections, as well as various governmental and non-governmental services.
The UIDAI has made significant strides in ensuring the accessibility and usability of Aadhaar by introducing various forms of Aadhaar over time. Each of these forms serves a distinct purpose, catering to the diverse needs of residents nationwide. This article will delve into the four types of Aadhaar issued by UIDAI, each offering unique features and advantages.
1. Aadhaar Letter
The Aadhaar Letter, issued by UIDAI, is a physical document that carries the 12-digit Aadhaar number and is securely laminated. What sets it apart is the presence of a secure QR code, which contains vital information such as the dates of issuance and printing. Whenever a new enrollment or a required biometric and demographic update (excluding mobile and email updates), the Aadhaar Letter is dispatched to the resident via regular mail. In case the Aadhaar Letter is lost or damaged, residents have the option to obtain an Aadhaar PVC Card online through the UIDAI website for a nominal fee of Rs. 50. The India Post’s fast post service ensures the efficient delivery of the PVC Card to the address listed in the Aadhaar database.
2. eAadhaar
eAadhaar is a digital incarnation of the Aadhaar card that offers several advantages. UIDAI digitally verifies this electronic version of Aadhaar and comes equipped with a secure QR code for offline verification. It includes essential details such as the Issue Date and the Download Date and is password-protected to enhance security. Residents can download their eAadhaar or a masked eAadhaar from UIDAI’s official website using their registered mobile number. The masked eAadhaar only reveals the last four digits of the Aadhaar number, adding an extra layer of privacy. Importantly, eAadhaar is free and can be downloaded with each Aadhaar enrollment or update.
3. mAadhaar
UIDAI has developed the official mAadhaar mobile application in an increasingly mobile-driven world. This app can be conveniently installed on a mobile device and downloaded on both Google Play and iOS platforms. mAadhaar empowers Aadhaar number holders to carry their Aadhaar details as registered with UIDAI, encompassing their Aadhaar number, demographic information, and a photograph. For offline verification, mAadhaar features an Aadhaar Tamper Proof QR code. Like eAadhaar, mAadhaar is automatically generated with every Aadhaar enrollment or update and can be downloaded for free. This mobile application adds a layer of convenience for residents, allowing them to access their Aadhaar information on the go.
4. Aadhaar PVC Card
The latest addition to the Aadhaar family is the Aadhaar PVC Card. This card is based on a PVC substrate and boasts a digitally signed Aadhaar Tamper Proof QR code with a photograph and demographic details. The PVC card incorporates multiple security features to enhance its authenticity. Residents can obtain the Aadhaar PVC Card online through the UIDAI website by providing their Aadhaar number, Virtual ID, or Enrolment ID for a nominal fee of Rs. 50. The card is then delivered to the resident at the address registered in the Aadhaar Database via India Post’s Speed Post service.
Conclusion
UIDAI’s commitment to convenience, security, and accessibility is evident in the diverse range of Aadhaar forms it offers to residents. Whether it’s the traditional Aadhaar Letter, the digital eAadhaar, the mobile-friendly mAadhaar, or the security-enhanced Aadhaar PVC Card, each type serves as a valuable tool in simplifying identification and access to essential services for every Indian citizen. These options reflect UIDAI’s dedication to ensuring that Aadhaar remains a robust and user-friendly identification system for all.
