Is 𝑨𝒂𝒅𝒉𝒂𝒂𝒓 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒅 Mandatory for Availing Different Services?

The Indian Government has made the Aadhaar card mandatory for various services and schemes such as filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, availing subsidies, and getting a mobile phone connection.

The government argues that the Aadhaar card is mandatory to prevent fraud, ensure transparency, and streamline the delivery of services. The Supreme Court of India has also upheld the constitutional validity of Aadhaar while placing certain restrictions on its usage.

However, privacy advocates have raised concerns about the mandatory nature of the Aadhaar. They argue that Aadhaar violates the right to privacy and can be misused for surveillance and profiling of cardholders. They also point out that the Aadhaar database has faced several security breaches, raising concerns about data protection. The response to these concerns is by introducing various measures such as the Aadhaar Act provides legal backing to Aadhaar and establishes a framework for its usage. The government has also implemented multiple safeguards, such as restricting the usage of Aadhaar for specific purposes, implementing strong data protection measures, and establishing an independent regulatory body to oversee the use of Aadhaar.

How to Apply for Aadhaar Card?

Applying for an Aadhaar card can be completed in simple steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for an Aadhaar card:

Locate your nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Center: You can do this by visiting the official UIDAI website and using the ‘Locate Enrolment Center’ tool. Once you’ve located the centre, you can either book an appointment online or visit the centre directly.

Fill in the Aadhaar Enrolment Form: The form is available at the centre and can be downloaded from the UIDAI website. Ensure you fill in all the required details accurately and provide your mobile number and email ID to receive updates on your Aadhaar card status.

Provide your Biometric Information: Including your fingerprints, iris scan, and photograph. Coordinate with the Aadhaar Enrolment Operator and follow their instructions to complete the process smoothly.

Collect your Acknowledgement Slip after successfully submitting all the required information: This slip contains your Enrolment ID, which you can use to track the status of your Aadhaar card application. This slip is essential for future reference; keep it secure. 

You can also check the status of your Aadhaar card online using your Enrolment ID.

The Aadhaar card will be sent to your registered address via post within 90 days of your application. 

Where is the Aadhaar Card Mandatory?

While an Aadhaar card is mandatory but only for some services and purposes, it is required for several vital tasks. For example, if you want to open a bank account or apply for a PAN card, an Aadhaar card is mandatory.

Similarly, if you want to apply for a passport or avail of government subsidies, an Aadhaar card is also required.

An Aadhaar card is mandatory for filing income tax returns, applying for a driving license, buying a new SIM card, and registering for specific exams, such as the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).

Apart from these obligatory requirements, an Aadhaar card is also helpful for identification when accessing various services or applying for government schemes. It can be used as proof of identity, address, and age and is accepted by many private organisations. It is proof of identity and address used for various purposes such as opening bank accounts, availing government subsidies and benefits, obtaining a mobile SIM card, filing income tax returns, and more.

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Why Should You Apply for an Aadhaar Card?

One of the primary reasons for the need to apply for an Aadhaar card is to establish a strong and trustworthy identification system in India. Earlier, India needed a standardised identification system, making it difficult for government agencies and private organisations to authenticate an individual’s identity. Aadhaar solves this problem by providing a unique identification number that can be easily verified.

Another reason for the need for Aadhaar is to ensure that government subsidies and benefits reach the intended beneficiaries. India has its largest population living below the poverty line, and many government schemes are targeted towards this population. Aadhaar helps eradicate replication and leakage of subsidies and benefits by ensuring that the benefits only reach the intended individuals. Aadhaar card mandatory also helps in promoting financial inclusion in India. With it, people can open a bank account without extensive paperwork, making it easier to access financial services.

In Summary

While the government argues that it is necessary to prevent fraud and streamline the delivery of services, privacy advocates and activists argue that it violates the right to privacy and can be misused for surveillance and profiling. Ultimately, it is up to the citizens of India to decide whether they want to enrol in Aadhaar, considering its benefits and risks.

FAQ’s about Aadhaar Card Mandatory