In a groundbreaking move, the unique identification authority of india (UIDAI) has announced that starting from October 1, 2025, all biometric updates for Aadhaar cards of children will be free of charge for one full year. This move will benefit over 6 crore children, bringing immense relief to millions of indian families. Here's everything you need to know about this initiative and how it can help your child stay Aadhaar-compliant.
1. What Does This Waiver Mean for Families?
Aadhaar cards are essential for a wide range of services, from opening bank accounts to availing of government benefits. However, children’s biometric data (such as fingerprints and iris scans) need to be updated periodically as they grow. Previously, families were required to pay a fee for mandatory biometric updates (MBU). With this new announcement, parents and guardians can now update their child’s Aadhaar for free, providing much-needed financial relief.
2. Why is biometric Update Necessary for Children?
As children grow, their biometric data changes, and the uidai mandates that these updates be done every few years to ensure accuracy. For children under five, Aadhaar data is linked with their photograph, but biometric details—such as fingerprints and iris scans—are updated at the age of **5 and again at 15. This ensures that their Aadhaar remains valid and functional for future identification purposes.
3. Who is Eligible for the Free biometric Update?
The free biometric update is applicable to children under the age of 18, whose Aadhaar cards need to be updated for biometric details. According to uidai, this is a relief for over 6 crore children, who would otherwise have to pay the regular update fees. This initiative comes as part of a larger push by the government to make Aadhaar more accessible and affordable to all citizens.
4. How Long Will This Waiver Last?
The waiver will be in effect for one year, starting from October 1, 2025, and will apply to all children eligible for the mandatory biometric update. After this one-year period, regular fees for biometric updates will be reinstated, unless the government decides to extend the waiver.
5. How to Avail of the Free Update?
The process to update Aadhaar details remains the same. parents or guardians can visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Centre or use the Aadhaar Self service Update Portal (SSUP) for online updates. The update process includes taking fresh biometric data (such as fingerprints and iris scan) for children aged 5 and above.
6. What Are the Long-Term Benefits of this Waiver?
The biometric update waiver not only makes Aadhaar updates affordable but also encourages more families to comply with the regulations, ensuring that their children’s Aadhaar cards are up-to-date. This will help streamline government welfare schemes, ensuring that children can avail of necessary benefits like scholarships, midday meals, and more without delays.
7. Conclusion: A Welcome Relief for indian Families
This initiative by the uidai is a welcome step towards reducing the financial burden on families while ensuring children’s Aadhaar details remain accurate and valid. With this move, over 6 crore children across india will benefit from free biometric updates, ensuring smoother access to government services and welfare programs.
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