UIDAI Aadhaar Update: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has joined hands with Behavioural Insights Limited (BIT) to make the Aadhaar biometric update process easier for children. The partnership is aimed at improving the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU), the two crucial milestones at ages 5 and 15 when every child must refresh their fingerprints, iris scans and photograph.
Why Are Parents Missing the Update Window?
UIDAI has noticed that many families delay these updates simply because they are unsure about the process or find it inconvenient to schedule a visit to an enrolment centre. As a result, children often end up facing hurdles when trying to access Aadhaar-linked services that depend on accurate biometric data.
Under
the new initiative, BIT will work with UIDAI to understand what exactly holds parents back, whether it’s lack of clarity, forgetfulness, or logistical issues. Based on these insights, the team will design nudges, reminders and simplified communication to make the experience less stressful and more intuitive.
One-Year Fee Waiver to Boost Compliance
In a significant incentive, UIDAI has waived the biometric update fee for children between 7 and 15 years for a full year starting October 1, 2025. The move is expected to ease financial concerns and encourage parents to complete the MBU within the recommended time frame.
How Children Can Update Biometrics: A Step-By-Step Guide
1. Check eligibility:
Children aged 7-15 can update Aadhaar biometrics free of cost between 1 Oct 2025 and 30 Sept 2026.
2. Find a centre:
Locate the nearest authorised Aadhaar Enrolment Centre through the Bhuvan Aadhaar portal or UIDAI website.
3. Carry required details:
Only the child’s Aadhaar number is needed unless you’re also changing demographic details.
4. Visit with the child:
Fresh fingerprints, iris scans, and a photograph will be taken on the spot.
5. Get the URN:
You’ll receive a Update Request Number to track progress on the UIDAI website.
6. Download updated Aadhaar:
Once processed, download it from the UIDAI portal or via mAadhaar.
What UIDAI and BIT Say
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar said that blending digital systems with behavioural understanding will make Aadhaar services more user-friendly for families. He stressed that the initiative is aimed at creating a smoother experience and ensuring children’s Aadhaar details remain accurate.
BIT CEO Rachel Coyle added that evidence-driven behavioural tools can dramatically improve timely biometric updates, helping children continue to access essential Aadhaar-linked benefits.
Why Timely Biometric Updates Matter
Updating a child’s biometrics at the right stages is crucial for keeping Aadhaar records valid. Since Aadhaar is tied to school admissions, government schemes, scholarships and various welfare programmes, outdated data can lead to avoidable delays and verification issues.
Parents can complete the update at any authorised Aadhaar Enrolment Centre by providing the child’s Aadhaar number. A full list of centres is available on the Bhuvan Aadhaar portal.
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