Those who have Aadhaar will be able to electronically disclose their identities rather than presenting photocopies. Users will be able to share a full or disguised version of the document via a QR code using a new mobile app from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) soon.

As of now, several Aadhaar details cannot be updated online and require visiting an Aadhaar Enrolment/Update Center. These include name, gender, date of birth, while address updates can be done online, updates to other demographic details should be done offline by visiting the centre.

UIDAI will introduce a protocol that lets people update their address, phone number, name and date of birth from home. By November, the only in‑person step will be giving fingerprints and iris scans at an enrolment Centre.

The goal of the action is to reduce paperwork, reduce the possibility of fake documents, and expedite the procedure for citizens. Birth certificates, driver's licenses, passports, PANs, PDSs, and MNREGA are among the documents from which UIDAI obtains its data directly. In order to facilitate address checks, discussions are also underway to connect electricity-bill databases.

UIDAI chief executive officer Bhuvnesh Kumar told media, “You will soon be able to do everything sitting at home other than providing fingerprints and IRIS.”

The purpose of the QR code is to prevent misuse. "It gives you the most control over your own data and only allows sharing with permission," Kumar added. In property-registration offices, where document fraud is prevalent, UIDAI is advising states to use the system.

UIDAI is in discussions with security firms, hotels, and other service providers who are not obligated to utilize Aadhaar to become part of the system. The goal of the larger network is to maintain individual control while bolstering verification.

What is Aadhaar?

Aadhaar number is a 12-digit random number issued by the UIDAI (“Authority”) to the residents of India after satisfying the verification process laid down by the Authority. Any individual, irrespective of age and gender, who is a resident of India, may voluntarily enroll to obtain Aadhaar number.

Source: The Economic Times