What is UID, what is Aadhaar?–A complete guide to unique identification

What is UID?

Literally translating, UID means “Unique Identification”. It could have different meanings for different uses. In connection to India, it is a volunteer identity that will be issues to people by the Unique Identification Authority of India. It will be issues to all Indians whether they are the citizens or not.

What is UIDIA Project?

UIDIA or unique identification project was initially conceived by the Planning Commission. The main motive of this initiative was to generate a unique identification to each resident across the country. Unique identification number will be used to deliver welfare services.

In the second meeting of the EGoM, which was held on 28 January 2008, strategy for the collation of NPR and UIDAI was discussed. Inter-alia, the proposal to establish UIDAI Authority under the Planning Commission was approved and thus Unique Identification Authority got the establishing recognition.

The Unique Identification project is the largest project undertaken anywhere in the world to provide people with a unique identification number.

What is Aadhaar?

Aadhaar is the brand name of this identification number. It is a 12-digit unique number which the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) will issue for all residents. It is expected that Aadhaar will be able to eliminate duplicate and fake identities in government and private databases in a cost-effective manner.

The unique point is that it will be randomly generated and will not be based upon caste, creed, religion and geography of individuals.

What is UIDAI logo or Aadhaar Logo?

Aadhaar or UIDAI logo is the visual representation of unique identification project. The Aadhaar logo is a sun in red and yellow, with a fingerprint traced across its center. The message behind Aadhaar logo is the new dawn of equal opportunity for each individual.

Benefit or usage of Aadhaar—the unique identification number

Though it sounds as any other number, it will have direct benefits in terms of banking and communication technologies. Individuals will be able to establish unique identities with banks and communication companies.

Microfinance, micropayments, customer acquisition, KYR (Know Your Residence) for KYC purposes will be solved with the Aadhaar number.

Who can get an Aadhaar or unique identification number?

Aadhaar or unique identification number will be issued to an individual who is a resident in India and satisfies the verification process laid down by the UIDAI.

What is the need of Aadhaar?

1. It is one singular and unique identity that will be recognized and accepted across the country and across all service providers.
2. Aadhaar (Unique identification number) will increase trust between public and private agencies and residents.
3. Aadhaar will empower poor underprivileged residents.

How to get an Aadhaar or Unique Identification Number?

The residents of will need to go to the nearest Enrolment Camp to register for an Aadhaar once the process is made open in the media.

Once the registration is done, residents will go through a biometric scanning of ten fingerprints and iris and will be photographed. An enrollment number will be issues and then an Aadhaar will be rolled out.