UIDAI has introduced important modifications in the guidelines concerning the Aadhar card for minors. For children who have an Aadhar card issued before the age of 5, it is now compulsory to update their biometrics after turning 7 years. Failing this, the child’s Aadhar card 12-digit unique identification number is likely to be deactivated. This has been communicated officially. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has begun the process of sending SMS notifications to the mobile number associated with the Aadhar of children to carry out the ‘mandatory update of biometric’ (MBU) process.According to the guidelines, ‘mandatory update of biometric’ must be completed by the set deadline. In the children’s biometric data proportionate to the age, UIDAI ensures that the data remains both reliable and precise. In case MBU is not done post age 7, there are chances the Aadhaar number may be deactivated. UIDAI has also provided a statement mentioning that if the biometric details like fingerprints and iris scans are not updated in children’s Aadhaar cards, they will face challenges in accessing numerous Aadhaar-linked schemes.Children below 5 years of age do not have their biometrics taken.In fact, for children under 5 years, biometrics like fingerprints and iris scans are not recorded. With regards to Aadhaar enrollment, only the child's capture photograph, their name, date of birth, gender, address, and a proof document is sufficient for children under 5. As per the rules, “It is mandatory to capture and append biometrics like fingerprints, iris scan and photograph to Aadhaar details of the child when he/she turns 5 years. This is the first instance when biometrics can be updated compulsorily.”There are several benefits provided to children as a result of having an Aadhaar card.As per UIDAI, children who undergo mandatory biometric updates between the ages of 5 to 7 will not be charged anything. However, after 7 years, there will be a fee of Rs 100 for changing biometrics. The Aadhaar card with updated biometrics eases an individual’s life and ensures a smooth process when using Aadhaar for servicing him/her during school admissions, entrance exam registrations, scholarship applications, and other activities.
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