Aadhaar Card Update: UIDAI to Launch Biometric Update Drive for Children via Schools in 2 Months
A major Aadhaar-related development is on the way for parents and schoolchildren. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is preparing to launch a nationwide biometric update drive for children, starting in the next 45 to 60 days, according to UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar.
This initiative aims to simplify the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) process for children who turn 5, a requirement under current Aadhaar rules.
🎯 Why This Matters
UIDAI estimates that over 7 crore children have not completed their mandatory biometric updates after crossing age 5. This update is essential to maintain the accuracy and reliability of the Aadhaar system. Without it, Aadhaar numbers may risk deactivation after age 7.
🏫 What’s Changing?
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UIDAI will collaborate with schools to conduct biometric updates
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The process will be carried out with parental consent
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UIDAI will send biometric machines to districts, rotating them from one school to another
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The pilot project is currently under testing and will roll out within two months
💸 What About the Charges?
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Free: If biometric update is done between ages 5–7
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₹100 Fee: If update is done after age 7
📚 Why Biometric Update Matters
An updated Aadhaar helps children:
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Get school admissions
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Register for entrance exams
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Avail scholarships and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes
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Use Aadhaar in various government and education services
📅 What Happens at Age 15?
UIDAI also plans to extend the MBU process further by organizing another round of updates for children when they turn 15, as part of Aadhaar's lifecycle update policy.
👶 For Infants and Kids Below 5
At present, Aadhaar cards for newborns and children below 5 are issued without biometric data, making the update at age 5 critical.
🧾 Final Word
The upcoming initiative by UIDAI is a significant step toward making Aadhaar usage more effective and accessible for children. Parents should ensure timely biometric updates to avoid service disruptions and maintain Aadhaar validity.
