Did UIDAI Waive Charges for Aadhaar Biometric Updates for Children Aged 7–15?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, UIDAI has waived all charges for Mandatory Biometric Updates for children aged 7-15, impacting around six crore kids. This decision aims to enhance access to essential services and streamline the enrollment process. Parents are encouraged to prioritize these updates to ensure their children benefit fully from this initiative.
Key Takeaways
- UIDAI waives MBU charges for children aged 7-15.
- Approximately six crore children will benefit from this initiative.
- MBUs conducted between 5-7 and 15-17 years are free.
- Updated Aadhaar biometrics enable easier access to vital services.
- Parents are urged to prioritize biometric updates.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has eliminated all fees associated with the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU-1). This initiative aims to assist approximately six crore children, as disclosed by an official on Saturday.
The fee exemption for MBU for the specified age group became effective on October 1 and will remain in effect for one year.
Children under five years old can enroll for Aadhaar by providing their photograph, name, birth date, gender, address, and birth certificate. Fingerprints and iris biometrics are not collected for Aadhaar enrollment before the age of five due to their immaturity.
Consequently, as per current regulations, fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs must be updated in the Aadhaar record when the child turns five. This is known as the first Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU).
Likewise, another biometric update is necessary when the child reaches 15 years, which is termed the second MBU.
The first and second MBUs, if conducted between 5-7 and 15-17 years of age, respectively, are now free. After this, a fee of Rs 125 will be charged for each MBU. With this new measure, MBU is now effectively complimentary for all children aged 5-17.
Having an Aadhaar with updated biometrics streamlines living and ensures effortless access to services like school admissions, entrance exam registrations, and benefits from scholarship and DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer) schemes, among others.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to prioritize updating the biometrics of their children in Aadhaar.
Last month, over 700 policy makers, startups, and industry leaders convened for the Aadhaar Samvaad in Hyderabad to exchange ideas aimed at enhancing service delivery through the unique digital ID, as reported by officials.
The UIDAI organized a day-long stakeholder conference with ecosystem partners, according to the officials.
During discussions, S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), emphasized that Aadhaar serves as a foundational layer of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure, enabling numerous services to be built upon it.
He mentioned the Aadhaar database's safety, praising its quality and convenience.
He urged UIDAI to further innovate while keeping the public's convenience in mind.
Neelkanth Mishra, Chairperson of UIDAI, discussed the importance of increasing engagement with stakeholders and emphasized that UIDAI's ongoing innovation will result in numerous use cases emerging soon.
Bhuvnesh Kumar, CEO of UIDAI, stated that Aadhaar is not merely a 12-digit unique identity system but also a journey towards empowerment, accessibility, and trust.
Point of View
I believe UIDAI's decision to waive biometric update fees for children is a commendable step towards ensuring that every child has access to essential services. This initiative not only alleviates financial burden on families but also reinforces the government's commitment to inclusivity and empowerment through technology. Such moves are crucial as we continue to build a robust digital infrastructure in India.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU)?
The Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) is a process where individuals must update their biometrics, including fingerprints and iris scans, in their Aadhaar records at specified ages to ensure accurate identification.
Who benefits from the fee waiver for MBU?
The fee waiver for MBU benefits children aged 5 to 17, allowing them to update their biometrics without incurring any charges.
When did the waiver for MBU charges take effect?
The waiver for MBU charges took effect on October 1 and will remain in place for one year.
How does updated Aadhaar biometrics benefit children?
Updated Aadhaar biometrics facilitate easier access to services like school admissions, scholarships, and various government schemes, ensuring that children can fully benefit from these opportunities.
What does UIDAI encourage parents to do?
UIDAI encourages parents and guardians to prioritize updating their children's biometrics in Aadhaar to ensure they can access the benefits provided through updated identification.
