The Unique identification number known as Aadhar is a twelve digit number given by the Unique Identification authority of India, to residents of India.
It is one of the most important documents that acts as proof and the government has made it mandatory for every citizen of the country to get this as a valid identity proof.
There is a misconception that aadhaar card is a copy of the Social security number that is used in the United States of America as a means of identification.
Let us look at some of the ways that makes the Aadhar Card different from other forms of identification:
2. When we say biometrics, it includes not just the retina scan, the fingerprints are taken and one has to give other documents that are counted as proof of identity such as PAN card, drivers license and passport which has your birth date, gender, age and address.
3. Although, it is not compulsory by law to have an aadhar card, it is recognised as an identity proof wherever you go, if you want to make your passport, verification by the company that you work for and completing the kyc or (know your customer) at the bank.
4. The aadhar card was made with the intention to give citizens the opportunity to get access to any service, this means that the addhar card is linked to your bank account, ration list depending on what category you belong to, education and sim card application.
5. The aadhar card is useful because it has a database that identity an individual with the help of biometrics, this cuts down on stealing other people's identity in order to get state subsidies.
6. The registration process for getting the aadhar card is easy, one can apply online and get the online record known as e-aadhar, that can be downloaded and used in case we need to show it as identity proof.
7. There is the digi locker that is provided by the government which makes it possible for us to keep a virtual copy of the aadhar card and other important documents that can be accessed whenever needed.
8. Previously filing taxes was a difficult task, now it has become easier as one can use the aadhar number as verification when you file the income tax return.
9. There are many places in India where the services of the government are unavailable, the aadhar card makes a difference as these people will have an opportunity to avail of these services.
10. When you get your aadhar card linked with the mobile number, it makes life easier as you do not have to use multiple documents as proof of identity for getting pension for senior citizens and withdrawal of pension fund in future.
In the end, although the aadhar card as a means of verification is not perfect and has its problems, in recent years, it has become the most important proof of identity for a resident of India.
