In a significant move towards enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of Aadhaar-related services, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has rolled out a feature that allows citizens to link or update their mobile numbers to Aadhaar without visiting an Aadhaar enrolment centre. This new process, which can be completed in just two minutes from the comfort of one’s home, aims to reduce the burden of in-person visits and streamline Aadhaar-based services across the country.
This change comes as part of a broader effort to digitize public services, making them more user-friendly and accessible, especially for people living in remote areas, the elderly, and those with limited mobility.
The Importance of Linking Mobile Numbers with Aadhaar
Aadhaar has become an integral part of India’s digital infrastructure, used for various services such as banking, subsidies, government schemes, and even telecom services. Linking an active mobile number to your Aadhaar is essential because many Aadhaar-based services, such as One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and important notifications, are tied to this mobile number.
Without an up-to-date mobile number linked to Aadhaar, users may face difficulties in accessing essential government services, receiving OTPs for banking, or verifying their identity through Aadhaar-enabled services. Therefore, keeping your mobile number linked to Aadhaar is vital for ensuring the smooth functioning of various digital processes.
What’s New: The Online Mobile Linking Process
Until now, individuals wishing to update or link a mobile number to Aadhaar had to visit an Aadhaar enrolment centre, a process that was not only time-consuming but also inconvenient for many. The new online feature introduced by UIDAI makes this process much simpler, enabling users to complete it from their home. Here’s an overview of what has changed:
Key Features of the New Mobile Linking Process:
- Remote Linking: The new system allows Aadhaar holders to link or update their mobile number without having to visit a physical Aadhaar enrolment centre.
- Fast and Easy: The process is designed to be user-friendly and can be completed in about 2 minutes, making it significantly faster than the previous method.
- Security Features: The update process uses One-Time Passwords (OTPs) and facial recognition (if necessary) to ensure that the request is legitimate and secure.
- Nominal Fee: A fee of ₹75 is required to complete the process, which is lower than the cost of traveling to an Aadhaar centre.
- Real-Time Confirmation: Once the process is complete, users receive immediate confirmation that their mobile number has been successfully linked or updated with their Aadhaar details.
Update Your Aadhaar Card by Linking it to Mobile Number
If you’re ready to link or update your mobile number with Aadhaar, follow these easy steps to complete the process from home:
- Download the Aadhaar App: First, download the official Aadhaar app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. Make sure to download the authentic app from a trusted source to ensure your data security.
- Log in with Your Aadhaar Number: Open the app and log in using your 12-digit Aadhaar number. You will be required to verify your identity through an OTP, which will be sent to your existing mobile number.
- Select ‘Update Mobile Number’: Once logged in, navigate to the “Update Mobile Number” section under the ‘Update Aadhaar’ tab. This option will allow you to modify the contact details linked to your Aadhaar.
- Enter the New Mobile Number: Enter your new mobile number in the provided field. Double-check the number to ensure it’s correct, and then proceed to the next step.
- Verify the Update: You will receive an OTP on the new number. Enter this OTP in the app to verify the number.
- Complete Facial Authentication (Optional): If required, complete the facial authentication process. This step is added for additional security, ensuring that the update request is legitimate.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the nominal fee of ₹75 using your preferred online payment method, such as debit/credit cards or digital wallets.
- Confirmation: After payment and successful verification, you will receive an immediate confirmation. Your mobile number will be successfully linked to your Aadhaar.
Why This Change Matters: Accessibility and Convenience
The ability to update your mobile number remotely through an online platform is a game-changer for many citizens across India. Here’s why this change is significant:
- Improved Accessibility: People in rural or remote areas, or those with limited mobility, can now link or update their mobile number without traveling to an enrolment centre. This is especially beneficial for elderly citizens or those living in areas with no easy access to Aadhaar centres.
- Time-Saving: The traditional method of linking a mobile number to Aadhaar involved long queues and waiting times at enrolment centres. With the new system, users can complete the process in just minutes, saving valuable time.
- Cost-Effective: The ₹75 fee is a small price to pay for the convenience of updating Aadhaar details from home. For many people, this fee is far less than the cost of traveling to an enrolment centre.
- Digital Empowerment: This feature aligns with the Indian government’s broader vision of Digital India, aiming to provide digital services to the masses, improve governance, and make citizens more self-reliant in managing their digital identity.
Security and Privacy: Ensuring Safe Aadhaar Updates
With increased digital services, concerns over security and privacy are inevitable. UIDAI has made it clear that this update process is secure. The system uses strong encryption to protect user data and ensures that all information is safely stored.
Additionally, the use of biometric authentication and OTP-based verification ensures that only authorized individuals can make changes to Aadhaar-linked information. It is also important for users to ensure they are downloading the official app to avoid any phishing attempts or fraudulent applications.
Challenges and Future Considerations
While the new system offers significant advantages, there are some challenges that could affect its widespread adoption:
- Internet Accessibility: The process requires an active internet connection, which could be a barrier for individuals living in regions with unreliable or no internet access. UIDAI will need to ensure that this service is available to everyone, even in remote areas.
- System Glitches and Technical Issues: As with any new technology, users may face technical problems during the initial rollout. UIDAI will need to ensure that the system functions smoothly and remains available to all users.
- Gradual Rollout: Initially, the online update service may be available only in select regions. UIDAI will need to expand this feature across the country, ensuring that all citizens can access the service.
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What You Should Do: Practical Tips
- Ensure Your Mobile Number is Active: Make sure that the mobile number you are trying to link is active and capable of receiving OTPs. This is essential for the verification process.
- Download the Official Aadhaar App: Only use the official Aadhaar app to update your details. Download it from trusted platforms like the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Check Confirmation Carefully: After completing the update, make sure to receive the confirmation message from UIDAI. If you don’t receive it, check the status of your request on the UIDAI website or app.
- Monitor Your Update History: The UIDAI app provides a feature where you can monitor the update history. This can be useful in case you need to track changes made to your Aadhaar details.
A Step Towards Simplified Governance
The introduction of the online Aadhaar mobile update process marks a significant step in India’s journey toward digital governance. By reducing the need for physical visits to Aadhaar centres and simplifying the update process, UIDAI is making it easier for citizens to maintain their Aadhaar-linked services.
As more people update their details online, the system will become more efficient, and digital services linked to Aadhaar will be more reliable. Although there are some challenges to address, the new feature promises greater convenience and accessibility for all citizens, making the process of updating Aadhaar more inclusive and empowering.
