In the vast landscape of government assistance programs in India, children now have the opportunity to seize the advantages of the Blue Aadhaar card. The Aadhaar card has become a cornerstone document for the Know Your Customer (KYC) process, serving as a means of identification and a crucial requirement for accessing government subsidies and schemes. It plays a pivotal role in various services, from opening a bank account to applying for a passport or acquiring a mobile SIM card. However, the introduction of Aadhaar for children, often referred to as Blue Aadhaar or Baal Aadhaar, stands out as a significant development.

The Birth of Blue Aadhaar

In 2018, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced Blue Aadhaar, a specialized version intended for children below the age of five. What sets this unique ID card apart is its distinctive blue hue and its pivotal role in simplifying the inclusion of young children in various government welfare programs.

One of the most distinctive features of the Blue Aadhaar is that children under five are exempt from providing biometric data, a standard requirement for adults. Instead, their Unique Identification (UID) is established based on demographic information and a facial image linked to their parents’ UID.

However, there’s a crucial requirement for these young cardholders. At the ages of 5 and 15, they must update their finger, iris, and facial photograph biometrics. Failure to do so results in the card losing its validity once the child reaches the age of five. The good news is that the process of updating biometric information for teenage Aadhaar subscribers is free of cost.

Applying for a Blue Aadhaar

Parents can apply for a Blue Aadhaar for their newborns, following UIDAI guidelines. The enrollment process accepts either a birth certificate or a hospital discharge slip as valid documentation.

Possessing a Blue Aadhaar card for a child unlocks access to numerous government assistance programs. For example, it simplifies the provision of midday meal services for children while aiding the government in distinguishing between legitimate and fraudulent students. Additionally, many schools now require Blue Aadhaar cards during the admission process.

Steps to Register for a Blue Aadhaar

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to register your child for a Blue Aadhaar:

Visit the UIDAI website at uidai.gov.in.

Select the option for Aadhaar card registration.

Fill in the child's name, the parent/guardian's phone number, and other essential information.

Choose the appointment option for Aadhaar card registration.

Locate the nearest enrollment center and schedule an appointment.

Attend the Aadhaar center with your Aadhaar, the child's date of birth certificate, reference number, and other necessary documents.

Complete the required formalities at the center.

Receive an acknowledgement number, which you can use to track the application's status.

It's important to note that children under the age of five will not have their biometrics taken, unlike adults.

The introduction of Blue Aadhaar has paved the way for a brighter and more secure future for the youngest members of society, ensuring they can access the benefits they rightfully deserve.

Conclusion: Benefits of Blue Aadhaar Cards for Children

the introduction of the Blue Aadhaar card has significantly simplified the process of including young children in various government assistance programs. This uniquely designed ID card, specially tailored for children under the age of five, eliminates the need for biometric data during the initial enrollment. However, it's crucial to remember that biometric information must be updated at the ages of 5 and 15 to maintain the card's validity.

Possessing a Blue Aadhaar card not only provides a seamless way to access government subsidies but also helps in distinguishing between genuine beneficiaries and fraudulent claims. It's a valuable document that can open doors to essential services, such as midday meals for children and smoother school admissions.

The application process is straightforward and can be easily completed by parents or guardians. By following the step-by-step guide provided by UIDAI, you can ensure your child's eligibility for a range of government benefits and secure their future effortlessly. So, don't miss the opportunity to unlock the full potential of the Blue Aadhaar card for your child's welfare.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Blue Aadhaar Card

1. What is a Blue Aadhaar Card?

The Blue Aadhaar Card, often referred to as Baal Aadhaar, is a unique ID card introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) specifically for children under the age of five. It simplifies their inclusion in various government welfare programs.

2. What makes the Blue Aadhaar Card different from the regular Aadhaar Card?

One of the primary distinctions is that children under five are not required to provide biometric data. Their UID is generated based on demographic information and a facial image linked to their parents' UID. Biometric data is only required at the ages of 5 and 15.

3. When is it necessary to update the biometric information of a child with a Blue Aadhaar Card?

Biometric information, including fingerprints, iris scan, and facial photograph, must be updated at the ages of 5 and 15. Failure to do so results in the card losing its validity.

4. How can parents apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card for their newborns?

Parents can apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card by visiting the UIDAI website (uidai.gov.in) and following the Aadhaar card registration process. They can use a birth certificate or a hospital discharge slip as acceptable documentation during enrollment.

5. What are the benefits of having a Blue Aadhaar Card for a child?

Possessing a Blue Aadhaar Card allows children to access various government assistance programs, including midday meal services and smoother school admissions. It also helps the government in distinguishing between legitimate students and fraudulent claims.

6. Is there a fee for updating the biometric information of a child with a Blue Aadhaar Card?

The process of updating biometric information for teenage Aadhaar subscribers is free of cost.

7. How can I track the status of my child's Blue Aadhaar Card application?

After completing the necessary formalities at the enrollment center, you will receive an acknowledgement number. You can use this number to track the status of the application.

8. Is it mandatory to update biometric information at the ages of 5 and 15?

Yes, it is essential to update biometric information at these ages to maintain the card's validity and ensure its continued eligibility for government benefits.

9. Can I schedule an appointment for Aadhaar card registration for my child?

Yes, you can schedule an appointment for Aadhaar card registration at your nearest enrollment center through the UIDAI website.

10. What is the purpose of the Blue Aadhaar Card in government assistance programs?

- The Blue Aadhaar Card helps in providing government assistance to children and aids in distinguishing between legitimate beneficiaries and fraudulent claims, making it an essential document for accessing various welfare services.

Written by: Md Muktar Hossain