New Aadhar rules: In the realm of Aadhaar card enrollment, the conventional process involves the scanning of biometrics, including fingerprints and iris patterns. However, for individuals without fingers or facing difficulties in iris scanning, this standard procedure poses a significant hurdle. The government, recognizing this issue, has issued a comprehensive advisory to Aadhaar service centers, outlining alternative approaches for individuals encountering biometric challenges.
A Paradigm Shift: Alternative Biometrics for Aadhaar Enrollment
Beyond Fingers: Aadhaar through Iris Scan
The government’s directive emphasizes the use of alternative biometrics for individuals who, due to certain circumstances, lack fingers or face challenges in providing fingerprints. This initiative ensures that those eligible for Aadhaar but unable to provide fingerprints can still undergo enrollment using iris scans.
Extraordinary Enrollment for Exceptional Cases
Individuals unable to provide both fingerprints and iris biometrics now have the option of Aadhaar enrollment under the category of extraordinary enrollment. This process involves recording essential details such as name, gender, address, and date/year of birth, alongside the available biometrics. Any missing biometric data can be clearly indicated in the software. The enrollment supervisor at the Aadhaar Enrollment Center is responsible for verifying and validating such extraordinary enrollments, ensuring that every eligible individual receives an Aadhaar Card number despite any biometric limitations.
Addressing the Aadhaar Challenge: A Real-Life Example
Josimol P Jose’s Case
A poignant example illustrating the significance of this initiative is the case of Josimol P Jose from Kottayam district, Kerala. Josimol, lacking fingers in her hands, faced challenges in obtaining her Aadhaar card. Prompted by this situation, Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajiv Chandrashekhar, took immediate action. He instructed UIDAI officials to address the issue promptly. A team from the authority visited Josimol’s residence, and her Aadhaar number was swiftly generated. With Aadhaar in hand, Josimol can now access social security pension benefits and avail herself of Kaivalya, a scheme designed for the disable.
Ministerial Directives for Inclusive Aadhaar Enrollment
Minister of State for Electronics and IT, Rajeev Chandrashekhar, emphasized the need for inclusivity in Aadhaar enrollment. He directed all Aadhaar Seva Kendras to issue Aadhaar cards to individuals facing challenges similar to Josimol or those with blurred fingerprints. The directive specifically advocates the use of alternative biometrics, such as iris scans, for those with fingerprint-related difficulties. Similarly, individuals unable to undergo iris scanning can enroll using only their fingerprints.
Navigating the Aadhaar System: Checking Usage History
For those seeking insights into the usage of their Aadhaar card, a visit to the Aadhaar Authentication History page is the first step. Navigate to resident.uidai.gov.in and locate the Aadhaar Authentication History section under Aadhaar Services. Here, by selecting the Aadhaar Service tab, users can access a detailed history of Aadhaar authentication.
Step-by-Step Guide for Authentication History
- Enter the 12-digit Aadhaar number.
- Input the security code or captcha along with the generated OTP (One Time Password).
- Choose from authentication options: Biometrics, Demographics, OTP, Demographic and Biometric, Biometric and OTP, or Demographic and OTP.
- Select the desired date range for information retrieval.
- Enter the OTP received on the registered number.
- Click the submit button to unveil comprehensive information about Aadhaar card usage.
By following these steps, individuals can gain valuable insights into the various authentication aspects of their Aadhaar card, ensuring a more informed and empowered user experience.