New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is set to roll out a nationwide initiative to update biometric details of children through schools, in a phased manner, within the next two months.
The decision is aimed at addressing the backlog of over seven crore children who are yet to complete their mandatory biometric update (MBU) after attaining the age of five.
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar reportedly said the authority is currently testing the required technology for school-based biometric updates and expects it to be ready within 45 to 60 days. “UIDAI is working on a project to start updating the biometrics of children with parental consent through schools,” he said, adding that the process would ensure greater coverage and convenience.
According to Aadhaar rules, biometric updates between the ages of five and seven are essential to maintain the accuracy of records and are provided free of cost. If delayed beyond seven years, however, an update fee of Rs 100 is applicable. Failure to complete this process could lead to the deactivation of the Aadhaar number.
Updated Aadhaar credentials are vital for accessing a range of services, including school admissions, scholarships, entrance exams and government benefit transfers.
Currently, Aadhaar enrolment for children under five does not include biometrics. To expand its outreach, UIDAI will supply biometric machines to every district, which will then be rotated among schools to facilitate enrolments and updates. As reported, plans are also underway to extend this model for the second mandatory biometric update required at the age of 15.
