Mon Nov 24 11:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is planning to introduce a new form of Aadhaar card that will only display a photograph and a QR code, omitting the Aadhaar number, address, and date of birth. This initiative aims to reduce the misuse of Aadhaar information by limiting offline verification practices, particularly in places like hotels and event venues. UIDAI emphasizes that Aadhaar should primarily be used for online verification through the Aadhaar number or QR code and discourages its use as a document. The UIDAI has also launched a new Aadhaar app to facilitate address updates, linking family members, and updating mobile numbers via facial recognition. While Aadhaar is a proof of identity, it is not considered proof of citizenship or date of birth.
News Article:
New Aadhaar Card to Omit Personal Details in Security Push
New Delhi: In a move to curb the misuse of Aadhaar information, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is set to introduce a redesigned Aadhaar card that will exclude sensitive personal details like the Aadhaar number, address, and date of birth. The new card will feature only a photograph and a QR code, which can be used for online verification.
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar announced the plan during a recent online conference, stating the initiative aims to minimize offline verification practices, such as those commonly used in hotels and at event venues. He emphasized that online verification via the Aadhaar number or QR code is the preferred method for ensuring identity privacy.
“We are reconsidering what information should be on the Aadhaar card,” Kumar stated. “By removing personal information from the physical card, we hope to discourage its use as a document and prevent potential misuse.”
The move comes as concerns rise over the storage of Aadhaar photocopies by businesses, posing potential fraud risks. UIDAI maintains that Aadhaar is primarily a proof of identity and should not be considered proof of citizenship or date of birth.
The UIDAI has also launched a new Aadhaar app that allows users to update their address, add family members, and update mobile numbers through facial recognition. The app is envisioned to be used for verification at various locations, including movie theaters, events, hotels, and residential societies.
The proposed changes are expected to be reviewed on December 1st and will be in line with the Aadhaar Act, which prohibits the unauthorized storage and use of Aadhaar information.