What is Blue Aadhaar Card, how to apply, what are benefits

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced a specialized Aadhaar card known as the "Blue Aadhaar" designed specifically for children under the age of five. This distinctively blue ID card holds great significance in facilitating the inclusion of young children in various government welfare programs.

A key feature that sets the Blue Aadhaar apart is that children under the age of five are exempt from providing biometric data, a requirement for adults. Instead, their Unique Identification (UID) is processed based on demographic information and a facial image linked to their parents' UID.

Young Aadhaar subscribers can update biometric information at age 5 and 15

However, it is crucial for these young cardholders to update their finger, iris, and facial photograph biometrics at the ages of 5 and 15. Failure to do so renders the card invalid once the child reaches the age of five. The process of updating biometric information for teenage Aadhaar subscribers is free of charge.

Parents can apply for a Blue Aadhaar for their newborns, following UIDAI guidelines. The enrollment process accepts either a birth certificate or a hospital discharge slip as valid documentation.

Documents Required for Blue Aadhaar Card

The following documents are required to get a Blue Aadhaar card issued by the UIDAI:

The child’s parent has to provide either the hospital discharge slip or the birth certificate of the child for Blue Aadhaar card enrolment.

The parent has to attach a copy of their existing Aadhaar card for the Blue Aadhaar card.

If the kid is old enough and attending school, then the parent is supposed to provide the school’s bonafide statement or the ID card. The Aadhaar card official will use the ID card as proof of identification.

Benefits of Blue Aadhaar card

Possessing a Blue Aadhaar card for a child grants access to a range of government assistance programs. It enables services such as midday meals for children and aids the government in distinguishing between fraudulent and legitimate students. Additionally, many schools now require the presentation of Blue Aadhaar cards during the admission process.

How to apply

For those interested in registering their child for a Blue Aadhaar, here is a step-by-step guide:

Visit the UIDAI website at uidai.gov.in.

Choose the option for Aadhaar card registration.

Fill in the child's name, the parent/guardian's phone number, and other essential information.

Select the appointment option for Aadhaar card registration.

Locate the nearest enrollment centre and schedule an appointment.

Attend the Aadhaar centre with your Aadhaar, the child's date of birth certificate, reference number, etc.

Complete the necessary formalities at the centre.

Receive an acknowledgment number, which can be used to track the status of the application.