Different Forms of Aadhaar and Their Features

Different Forms of Aadhaar and Their Features: All the details related to the different forms of Aadhaar Card and their features are provided here.

Aadhaar, the 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has become one of the most important identity and address proof documents in India.

Linked to an individual’s demographic and biometric information, including photograph, ten fingerprints, and two iris scans, Aadhaar data is securely stored in UIDAI’s Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR).

To cater to diverse needs and enhance accessibility, UIDAI has introduced various forms of Aadhaar over the years. This comprehensive guide explores the major types of Aadhaar and their key features.

Different Forms of Aadhaar and Their Features

All the details related to the different forms of Aadhaar Card and their features are provided below:

Aadhaar Letter

The Aadhaar Letter is the original physical, paper-based document sent by UIDAI to residents via ordinary post.

Key Features:

• Printable and laminated letter containing:
  • Aadhaar number
  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Gender
  • Address of the Aadhaar holder
• Digitally signed QR code with encrypted demographic information and photograph
• Printed on secure, tear-proof paper with latent image showing the Aadhaar logo (visible at an angle)
• Contains Issue Date and Print Date
• Can be used as offline identity proof (no biometric authentication required)
• Provided free of cost upon new Aadhaar enrollment or mandatory biometric update

eAadhaar

eAadhaar is the electronic form of the Aadhaar letter provided in PDF format, downloadable from the UIDAI website.

Key Features:

• Password-protected digital Aadhaar valid for offline verification
  • Password: First 4 letters of name (in capital) + birth year (YYYY format)
• Contains digitally signed QR code with photograph and demographic details
• Displays Issue Date and Download Date
• Masked version available (shows only last 4 digits of Aadhaar number)
• Generated automatically with each Aadhaar update
• Can be downloaded anytime free of cost

mAadhaar

mAadhaar is a mobile application that allows residents to carry their Aadhaar details on their smartphone.

Key Features:

• Available for Android and iOS devices
• Securely stores Aadhaar data on the mobile device after authentication
• Provides demographic details, photograph, and digitally signed QR code
• Offline functionality (no internet required for sharing once installed)
• Allows users to lock/unlock biometric authentication
• Enables selective sharing of QR code
• Automatically updated after each Aadhaar update

Aadhaar PVC Card

Launched in 2021, the PVC Aadhaar Card is the latest and most durable form of Aadhaar, similar to ATM/Debit cards.

Key Features:

• Can be ordered online at uidai.gov.in for Rs 50
• Printed and laminated, dispatched via speed post
• Contains digitally signed QR code with photograph and demographic details
• Multiple security features:
  • Hologram
  • Micro text
  • Ghost image
  • Issue date & print date
  • Guilloche pattern
• Smart card design for easy carrying and durability
• Convenient for storage in wallets, bags, etc.
• Facilitates easy offline verification and identification

Comparison of Aadhaar Forms

Conclusion

The various forms of Aadhaar – the physical letter, eAadhaar, mAadhaar, and PVC card – cater to the diverse needs of residents, providing flexible options for identity and address validation through both offline and online modes.

Key advantages of these different formats include:

• Enhanced accessibility and convenience
• Improved durability (especially the PVC card)
• Increased security features to prevent tampering
• Options for both digital and physical verification
• Flexibility in sharing and protecting personal information

As UIDAI continues to innovate and enhance the Aadhaar ecosystem, these various formats contribute to making Aadhaar a universally accessible and omnipresent digital identity for residents across India. The range of options ensures that individuals can choose the most suitable format based on their specific needs and preferences, while maintaining the integrity and security of their personal information.

By offering multiple forms of Aadhaar, UIDAI not only increases the utility of the identification system but also adapts to the changing technological landscape and diverse user requirements. This flexibility is crucial in ensuring that Aadhaar remains a relevant and effective tool for identity verification in various contexts, from government services to private sector applications.