Aadhaar Update: Aadhaar is a crucial document for Indians. Now linked to almost every essential service, many are confused about whether it can serve as proof of Indian citizenship. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has repeatedly clarified that Aadhaar can only be used as proof of identity, not as proof of citizenship.
However, rumours keep spreading about it at times. To clear this confusion, UIDAI has once again clarified that Aadhaar establishes the identity of a person, but it cannot be considered as proof of residence or citizenship. A recent order issued by the Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, said, “Aadhaar number can be used to establish the identity of the Aadhaar holder, provided authentication or offline verification is done.”
“The Aadhaar number or its authentication is not proof of citizenship or residence of the Aadhaar number holder. It is not proof of date of birth and, therefore, should not be used to conclusively establish the date of birth of an Aadhaar number holder,” the order said.
For which services is Aadhaar mandatory?
Aadhaar has become an integral part of many financial and government services. Today, many benefits and transactions are impossible without your Aadhaar number. It is mandatory for filing ITR, linking PAN, opening a bank account, and purchasing a new mobile SIM card. Aadhaar is also required for certain investments, such as mutual funds and other investments that require KYC verification. Most government subsidies and welfare schemes also require Aadhaar authentication.
Use of Aadhaar in welfare schemes
Aadhaar is required to receive government subsidies and benefits under schemes like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBTL) for LPG. It is also mandatory for pension schemes like the Employees’ Pension Scheme.