Free Aadhaar Update : The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has taken a major decision. It has waived all fees for mandatory biometric update (MBU-1). This decision is expected to benefit approximately 60 million children. This waiver will take effect on October 1, 2025, and will remain in effect for one year. This move will help keep children’s biometric data updated.

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has waived all fees for mandatory biometric update (MBU-1) from October 1, 2025. This will benefit approximately 6 crore children for a period of one year, helping them keep their biometric data updated. This decision effectively makes biometric update free for all children aged 5-17. This will make it easier to avail services like school admission, scholarships, and DBT schemes.

What was the fee for biometric update earlier?

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has taken this important decision. Around 6 crore children are expected to benefit from this move. This exemption has come into effect from October 1, 2025. This exemption will be applicable for a period of one year.

This move will help in keeping the biometric data of children updated. Earlier, a fee was charged for biometric update. The first and second MBU were free if done between the age of 5-7 and 15-17 years. After this, a fixed fee of Rs 125 per MBU was charged.

Following this decision by UIDAI, biometric updates will be free for all children aged 5-17. With this decision, MBU is now effectively free for all children aged 5-17. Aadhaar card rules are different for children under five years of age. Fingerprints and iris biometrics are not captured for Aadhaar enrollment for children under five years of age.

What do the rules say?

Children under five years of age enroll for Aadhaar by providing their photo, name, date of birth, gender, address, and birth certificate. Now, whenever these children need to update their biometrics, they will not be charged a single rupee. The first mandatory biometric update (MBU) is required when a child reaches five years of age.

This update adds fingerprints, iris, and photo to the child’s Aadhaar. Similarly, the child needs to update their biometrics once again when they reach 15 years of age. This is called the second mandatory biometric update (MBU).

Parents and guardians have been advised to update their children’s biometrics on a priority basis. This will ensure that children can benefit from various government and educational schemes. This decision will make Aadhaar services more accessible and affordable for children. It also underscores the importance of Aadhaar for children.