Mar 24, JAMMU: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), in collaboration with the Information Technology Department Jammu and Kashmir and the Samagra Shiksha under the School Education Department, has launched a large-scale Mega Aadhaar Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) Drive 2.0 across the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
The initiative aims to ensure timely biometric updates of Aadhaar details for school-going children, making essential identity services more accessible within educational institutions.
Drive Begins in Winter Zone Schools
As per the official plan, the drive has already commenced in schools located in the winter zones of the Union Territory. For schools in summer zones, the campaign is scheduled to begin from April 1.
The phased rollout has been designed to ensure smooth implementation without disrupting academic activities, while also covering a wide geographical area efficiently.
Coverage of Over 2 Lakh Students
The Mega Drive 2.0 is expected to cover 2,382 identified schools across Jammu and Kashmir. Through this initiative, Aadhaar biometric update services will be provided to more than 2 lakh students directly within school premises.
By bringing these services to schools, authorities aim to eliminate the need for students and parents to visit enrolment centres, thereby saving time and ensuring higher participation.
Focus on Mandatory Biometric Updates
Biometric updates in Aadhaar are mandatory at certain age milestones to maintain the accuracy of data. The drive specifically targets students who are due for such updates, ensuring that their Aadhaar details remain valid and up-to-date for availing various services and benefits.
Officials stated that conducting updates within schools will significantly improve compliance and reduce the chances of outdated records among students.
Strengthening Digital Governance
The initiative reflects the government’s continued efforts to strengthen digital governance and improve service delivery mechanisms. Aadhaar plays a crucial role in accessing various welfare schemes, scholarships, and educational services, making timely updates essential.
By integrating Aadhaar services with the education system, the administration aims to streamline processes and enhance efficiency in public service delivery.
Coordination Between Departments
The success of the drive relies on close coordination between multiple departments, including UIDAI, the IT Department, and the School Education Department. School authorities are also playing a key role in facilitating the process and ensuring that students participate in the update drive.
The initiative is expected to significantly boost Aadhaar data accuracy among the student population while promoting digital inclusion at the grassroots level.
Making Services Accessible at Doorstep
Officials highlighted that conducting biometric updates within school campuses is a step towards providing citizen-centric services at the doorstep. It not only reduces logistical challenges but also ensures that no eligible student is left out.
The Mega Aadhaar MBU Drive 2.0 is being seen as a major step towards improving Aadhaar coverage and strengthening the digital identity framework in Jammu and Kashmir.
