UIDAI Simplifies 5 Aadhaar Services; Face Recognition Now an Option for Ration Collection
UIDAI has launched five new initiatives to streamline Aadhaar services. These include face authentication for ration collection, a new token system, and a new website. These measures were announced on Aadhaar Diwas.
If you use Aadhaar-related services, this news is relevant to you. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced five new services to make Aadhaar-related operations easier and more convenient. These initiatives include several changes, such as a facial recognition facility for collecting rations, a new token management system, and a new website.
UIDAI announced these initiatives during the ‘Aadhaar Samvad’ event held in Kolkata to mark the 17th Aadhaar Diwas. The primary objective of these changes is to simplify the use of Aadhaar-related services compared to the past and to improve public access to digital facilities.
Face Recognition for Ration Collection
In collaboration with the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) and the National Informatics Centre (NIC), UIDAI has launched a face authentication facility for e-PDS beneficiaries. Under this system, face authentication can be used instead of fingerprint verification in certain cases when collecting rations. This will be particularly helpful for individuals who face difficulties with fingerprint-based identification.
However, this is a consent-based and contactless authentication system that states and Union Territories can integrate into their respective e-PDS systems.
New Token System for Visiting UIDAI Offices
A new token management system has been introduced for people visiting UIDAI state and regional offices for Aadhaar-related services. The aim is to better manage visitor flow at the offices and facilitate easier access to offline Aadhaar services. New Framework for Low-Volume Entities
UIDAI has introduced the Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA (Lite) framework. This is specifically designed for government and eligible non-government entities that require Aadhaar authentication only on a limited scale. A major advantage of this system is that entities will not need to build their own separate authentication infrastructure; instead, they can utilize the existing authentication infrastructure of an established AUA or KUA.
Launch of SWIK Portal 2.0
- UIDAI has also launched the SWIK Portal 2.0 for entities involved in Aadhaar authentication.
- Eligible non-government entities can submit proposals through this portal.
- Proposals can be sent online to the relevant ministry or government department.
- The primary objective of SWIK Portal 2.0 is to simplify the application process for approved Aadhaar authentication use cases.
New Features on UIDAI’s New Website
UIDAI has launched a redesigned website. It has been developed to ensure easy access to Aadhaar-related information, services, documents, and support.
- The website includes screen reader support.
- Users can adjust the font size.
- Improved color contrast features are provided.
- Keyboard navigation has been incorporated.
- The website currently supports 13 languages, including Hindi and English.
- There are plans to expand support to 23 languages in the future.

