The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has once again extended the deadline for Aadhaar holders to update their details online for free. The deadline, originally set for September 14, 2024, has now been extended to December 14, 2024. This is the second time the UIDAI has extended the deadline after June 14. Now the government is giving citizens an additional 90 days to update their information through the official online portal of UIDAI without any charge. However, it is important to note that this service is available only for online updates, any updates including updating biometric information at an Aadhaar centre will still incur a fee.

But why is the government urging people to update Aadhaar and why is it setting the deadline so early?

Aadhaar, which is a 12-digit unique identification number, has become a vital document for every Indian resident. It not only serves as a proof of identity and address but is also essential for a variety of daily activities. From applying for government schemes and opening bank accounts to booking travel tickets and filing income taxes, Aadhaar is central to several processes. And with its growing importance, it is also becoming a target for fraudsters to exploit it. UIDAI, the governing body for Aadhaar, has revealed that updating Aadhaar details helps the government keep updated records and even helps fight Aadhaar-related fraud.

The Government of India is now strongly encouraging Aadhaar holders to update their details every 10 years to ensure the accuracy of demographic and biometric information.

Keeping your Aadhaar updated is important for several reasons:

– Helps the government ensure that public schemes and services are delivered to the right people without delays caused by out-of-date information.

– By maintaining accurate and updated details, Aadhaar helps prevent fraud.

– Aadhaar is used in a variety of verification processes, including financial transactions, school or college admissions, and even travel bookings. Ensuring that your information is correct also helps avoid complications in these processes.

How to update Aadhaar details online for free?

Updating Aadhaar online is a simple process that you can do from the comfort of your home:

– Visit the official UIDAI website: Visit the Aadhaar Self Service Portal myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/.

– Use your Aadhaar number and the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number to log in.

– Check the identity and address details displayed on your Aadhaar profile. If any information is incorrect or outdated, proceed to update.

– Select the appropriate document type (Proof of Identity or Proof of Address) and upload a scanned copy of the original document. Supported formats include JPEG, PNG, and PDF, with a file size limit of 2 MB.

– After submitting your update request, you will receive a Service Request Number (SRN). Use this number to track the status of your update.

You cannot update biometric information online

While demographic updates such as address and name can be done online, biometric updates (such as fingerprint, iris scan and photo) require an in-person visit to a UIDAI-authorised Aadhaar centre. Additionally, it is recommended to update children’s Aadhaar details every 10 years or at the age of 15, to include their updated biometric information.

To update biometric information:

– Visit the nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre with your child.
– Fill the Aadhaar enrolment form.
– If the child is below five years of age, submit his/her biometric data or photograph.
– Pay the applicable fee for biometric update.