16 July: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has issued a fresh advisory to parents across the country, stressing the importance of updating the biometric data of children once they turn 7 years old. The move is aimed at ensuring the continued validity of the Aadhaar card, which could otherwise face deactivation or limited usability if not updated on time.
As per UIDAI guidelines, Aadhaar cards issued to children below the age of five are generated using demographic details and a photograph only — without capturing biometrics such as fingerprints or iris scans. This is known as a Blue Aadhaar or Baal Aadhaar. Once the child reaches 5 years of age, the first biometric update becomes mandatory. However, a second biometric update is also essential at the age of 7, when permanent biometric traits begin to stabilize.
According to UIDAI, failure to perform this update can lead to the Aadhaar number being flagged or even temporarily suspended, especially when linked with services such as school admissions, government scholarships, health benefits, or other welfare schemes.
To make the process more convenient, the UIDAI allows parents to book online appointments through the official UIDAI portal or simply visit the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. The biometric update is free of cost and typically includes fingerprints, iris scan, and a facial photograph. Once the update is completed, the Aadhaar remains valid for the lifetime of the child — with no further mandatory biometric updates required unless recommended in the future.
The UIDAI has also urged parents to regularly check Aadhaar status and verify demographic details, especially when linked with essential services like bank accounts, PAN, or ration cards. These updates not only help in maintaining the authenticity of the Aadhaar database but also prevent identity misuse and delays in availing subsidies or benefits.
A recent UIDAI tweet read: “Is your child above 7 years old? Make sure their Aadhaar gets updated with biometrics to avoid service disruptions. Visit your nearest Aadhaar centre today!”
Experts view this initiative as a necessary step toward robust identity management for India’s growing population. With Aadhaar being increasingly integrated into government and private-sector services, ensuring that each citizen — including children — has an updated and verified identity is crucial.
As Aadhaar continues to be a key document in India’s digital governance infrastructure, parents are strongly advised not to delay the biometric update at age 7, ensuring seamless access to various essential services for their children.
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