Latest news with #BhuvneshKumar
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Big e-Aadhaar revamp on the cards! No more photocopies of Aadhaar card required, updation to become easy; check top steps
Users can share digital versions of their Aadhaar, choosing between complete or masked formats. Big e-Aadhaar revamp soon! In the coming weeks, a new QR code-based application will eliminate the need for physical photocopies of Aadhaar cards to be submitted. Users can share digital versions of their Aadhaar, choosing between complete or masked formats. By November, the Unique Identification Authority of India ( UIDAI ) is also planning to introduce a streamlined procedure that will significantly reduce visits to Aadhaar centres for updation. Except for biometric submissions, updates to address and other information will be automated through integration with various official databases. These include birth certificates, matriculation records, driving licences, passports, PAN cards, PDS and MNREGA systems. This initiative aims to simplify the process for citizens whilst reducing fraudulent document submissions for Aadhaar registration. Additionally, discussions are in progress to incorporate electricity bill records to enhance user convenience. Also Read | ITR filing FY 2024-25: Several changes in Form 16! Top things salaried taxpayers shouldn't miss UIDAI's chief executive officer Bhuvnesh Kumar has informed TOI about a newly developed application, with approximately 2,000 out of one lakh machines already utilising this new system. "You will soon be able to do everything sitting at home other than providing fingerprints and IRIS," he said. e-Aadhaar Revamp: Explained in Top Points The application will enable users to update personal details including addresses, telephone numbers, names and incorrect birth date corrections. The introduction of QR code-based Aadhaar transfers between mobile devices or applications is considered essential for preventing misuse, with potential applications ranging from hotel check-ins to identity verification during rail travel. "It offers maximum user control over your own data and can be shared only with consent," Kumar said. The system can additionally be implemented by sub-registrars and registrars during property registration procedures to prevent fraudulent activities. Kumar indicated that UIDAI is working with state governments to incorporate Aadhaar verification for individuals registering properties, aiming to reduce instances of fraud. UIDAI has commenced discussions with CBSE and additional examination boards to facilitate biometric and other data updates for children, which needs to be completed during two age brackets: between five and seven years, and between 15 and 17 years. They are planning a dedicated campaign to address the pending updates, which include eight crore cases for the first update (children aged five to seven years) and 10 crore cases for the second update. Additionally, UIDAI is collaborating with various organisations, including security agencies and hospitality establishments, to extend Aadhaar services to entities where its use is not mandatory. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
5 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
No more Aadhaar photocopies: UIDAI plans to launch app-based verification via QR code
In the coming weeks, Aadhaar holders will be able to share their identity electronically instead of handing over photocopies. A new mobile app from the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) will let users send either a full or a masked version of the document through a QR code, a TOI report stated. Aadhaar updates from home by November 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 move aims to cut paperwork, lower the risk of forged documents and make the process faster for citizens. UIDAI draws data directly from records such as birth certificates, driving licences, passports, PAN, PDS and MNREGA. Talks are also on to link electricity‑bill databases for smoother address checks. New UIDAI app rolls out UIDAI chief executive officer Bhuvnesh Kumar said the agency has shifted about 2,000 of its one lakh enrolment machines to the new app. 'You will soon be able to do everything sitting at home other than providing fingerprints and IRIS,' he told The Times of India. The QR‑code method is set to work for hotel check‑ins, property deals and even identity checks on trains. QR Code method The QR code is designed to limit misuse. 'It offers maximum user control over your own data and can be shared only with consent,' Kumar added. UIDAI is urging states to use the system at property‑registration offices, where document fraud is common. Live Events Focus on children's records UIDAI is also planning drives with school boards such as CBSE to complete mandatory biometric updates for children aged five to seven and again at 15 to 17. Officials estimate eight crore first‑round updates and 10 crore second‑round updates are still pending. Security agencies, hotels and other service providers that are not required to use Aadhaar are in talks with UIDAI to join the system. The wider network is meant to strengthen verification while keeping control with the individual.
Time of India
6 days ago
- Time of India
E-Aadhaar: You'll soon be able to do everything sitting at home, says UIDAI CEO
Soon, e-Aadhaar will be sufficient for verification NEW DELHI: In a few weeks, you may not need to provide photocopies of Aadhaar and will instead be able to share electronic Aadhaar, either in full or the masked version, using a new app based on QR code. And, by November, other than submitting your biometric details, you will not be required to visit Aadhaar centres to update address and submit other details as the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has lined up a new protocol that will draw from the birth certificate, matriculation certificate, driving licence, passport, PAN, PDS and MNREGA database to seek your address and other details to not just simplify life for citizens but also reduce the possibility of forged documents being used to get Aadhaar. Talks are underway to access the electricity bill database which will make it more convenient. UIDAI chief executive officer Bhuvnesh Kumar told TOI that a new app has been developed by the agency and around 2,000 of the one lakh machines have now moved to the new tool. "You will soon be able to do everything sitting at home other than providing fingerprints and IRIS," he said. This will include updating addresses, phone numbers, name change and even rectification of a wrong date of birth. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 오스템 임플란트 받아가세요 임플란터 더 알아보기 Undo The move to allow QR code-based mobile-to-mobile or app-to-app transfer of Aadhaar is seen to be crucial to check against misuse and is proposed to be used for several purposes - from checking in at hotels to identity verification on a running train. "It offers maximum user control over your own data and can be shared only with consent," Kumar said. This can also be used by sub-registrars and registrars at the time of property registration, where frauds often take place. Kumar said UIDAI is sensitising state governments to use Aadhaar to verify the credentials of those coming to register property, so that some of the frauds can be prevented. He said UIDAI has also initiated talks with CBSE and other exam boards to ensure biometric and other data updation of children, which is required to be done between five and seven years and again between 15 and 17 years. A special drive is planned so that the eight crore missing details for the first update (for kids between five and seven years) and 10 crore second update can be completed. Separately, UIDAI is also working with various players, such as security agencies, hotels, for covering entities that are not mandated to use Aadhaar.
Time of India
24-04-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar on securing the digital identity of over billion Indians
As of January 2025, over 100 crore face-authentication transactions were recorded in India—proof of how deeply Aadhaar has become embedded in the country's digital and financial ecosystem. Behind this scale and sophistication is the Unique Identification Authority of India ( UIDAI ), which continues to evolve the Aadhaar platform to meet emerging technological, legal, and societal challenges. In this wide-ranging interview, Bhuvnesh Kumar, Chief Executive Officer of Unique Identification Authority of India - UIDAI , speaks to Anoop Verma , Editor-News, ETGovernment, about how Aadhaar is being continually fortified through artificial intelligence, biometric liveness detection , and blockchain-based verifications. From empowering women through financial independence to ensuring last-mile delivery in remote areas via fingerprint-enabled doorstep banking, Kumar offers a comprehensive look into how UIDAI is building a secure, inclusive, and future-ready identity infrastructure for over a billion Indians. Edited excerpts: Aadhaar has been instrumental in financial inclusion. How has it impacted India's unbanked population and Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT)? Aadhaar has played a transformative role in advancing financial inclusion in India. Over 50 crore bank accounts were opened under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), a milestone made possible through Aadhaar-based eKYC. This method of electronic Know Your Customer verification is fast, non-repudiable, and highly cost-effective, significantly accelerating the onboarding of new customers for banking services. As a result, India has achieved near-universal financial inclusion in terms of bank account proliferation. When Aadhaar was conceptualized in 2009, only about 17% of India's population had bank accounts. By 2024, approximately 95% of the population—virtually 100% of adults—possessed an Aadhaar number, and bank account ownership had surged to 77%. Aadhaar authentication has also helped eliminate around 100 million fake or ghost beneficiaries, enabling the government to deposit subsidies and benefits directly into the accounts of verified individuals. This direct benefit transfer mechanism has led to cumulative savings of ₹3,72,546 crore by March 2025. Once linked to a bank account, Aadhaar becomes a financial address for the holder, allowing precise and efficient delivery of welfare schemes to the rightful beneficiaries. How does UIDAI ensure that people in rural areas, who may have limited access to technology, can still use Aadhaar effectively? UIDAI has implemented several measures to bridge the digital divide in rural India, ensuring Aadhaar's accessibility even in areas with limited technological infrastructure. The Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) has proven particularly effective, allowing individuals to access their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts using just their fingerprints. Through door-step banking services provided by "bank mitras," residents can carry out transactions from the comfort of their homes, overcoming barriers such as lack of smartphones or internet access. Fingerprint-based Aadhaar authentication is also widely used for accessing a variety of government services, especially in-kind benefits like the Public Distribution System (PDS), which has emerged as one of the largest platforms for Aadhaar-based identity verification. Moreover, UIDAI has introduced offline verification options, including QR code-based Aadhaar services, which enable identity verification even in areas with poor or no internet connectivity, thereby ensuring inclusivity in remote regions. What are the challenges in Aadhaar enrollment for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals, and how is UIDAI addressing them? UIDAI has instituted multiple provisions to address enrolment challenges faced by vulnerable populations, ensuring that no eligible individual is left out due to physical or biometric limitations. Under its Biometric Exception Enrolment Guidelines issued on August 1, 2014, UIDAI allows enrollment for individuals who cannot provide biometric data such as fingerprints or iris scans due to reasons like injury, old age, leprosy, or other conditions. If only one biometric—either fingerprint or iris—is available, it is used for enrolment; if neither can be captured, enrolment still proceeds based on demographic details, with specific notations in the system and a supervisor's validation. Photographs highlighting the biometric exception are also required, ensuring documentation is thorough. Additionally, UIDAI has issued advisories to all registrars and enrolment agencies, urging them to train operators on handling exceptional cases with care and empathy. For those unable to visit enrolment centres, UIDAI offers home enrolment services on a chargeable basis, particularly for senior citizens, bedridden individuals, and persons with disabilities. Applicants must submit supporting documentation, including a medical certificate or disability ID, to the nearest UIDAI Regional Office. UIDAI also conducts regular enrolment camps to reach and serve vulnerable populations across the country. There have been concerns about Aadhaar-related exclusions in welfare schemes. How does UIDAI work with the government to ensure benefits reach the intended beneficiaries? UIDAI is committed to ensuring that Aadhaar does not become a barrier to accessing welfare benefits. For schemes governed under Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, Aadhaar authentication is not mandatory for availing benefits. In cases where Aadhaar authentication is not feasible, beneficiaries are allowed to establish their identity through alternate means. While UIDAI provides the technological backbone for identity verification, it is the responsibility of the implementing agencies to formulate clear policy guidelines allowing such alternatives, thereby ensuring that no eligible beneficiary is denied service due to Aadhaar-related challenges. How does Aadhaar empower women, particularly in terms of financial independence and access to government schemes? Aadhaar has significantly contributed to empowering women by facilitating a shift from family-based to individual-based bank accounts. Aadhaar-based eKYC has made it possible for women to open their own bank accounts quickly and securely, which is now a prerequisite for receiving Direct Benefit Transfers (DBTs). As government welfare benefits are now transferred directly to the individual's account, women beneficiaries are ensured direct and independent access to financial resources. This direct ownership of funds has enhanced their ability to make financial decisions, thereby fostering greater economic independence and contributing to their empowerment. What technological advancements are being integrated into Aadhaar to enhance security and authentication? To enhance security within the authentication ecosystem, biometric spoof detection techniques based on artificial intelligence and machine learning models are being integrated into fingerprint devices by respective vendors. Additionally, biometric matching and liveness detection models for both face and fingerprint modalities are regularly trained using the latest datasets. UIDAI is also progressing toward implementing liveness detection for iris-based devices, further strengthening the overall biometric security infrastructure. UIDAI is actively deploying AI and ML technologies to detect and prevent identity fraud across multiple fronts. One live project involves an AI-ML model that analyzes biometric enrolment and update patterns to identify fraudulent activities, such as flipped or partial IRIS submissions and mixed biometrics. The system flags anomalies and potential fraud cases. AI also extracts URLs from QR codes to validate credentials against whitelisted sources like official birth certificate issuers. A face-matching system integrated with liveness detection helps prevent spoofing through photos or videos. The SEDA system further enhances security by performing 1:N face deduplication and cross-matching with Bureau of Immigration records to prevent fraudulent enrolments by foreigners. Additionally, an AI-based age prediction model is in canary mode to detect age-related fraud. In the short term, projects in the pipeline include AI-driven photo matching from submitted documents to reduce dependency on human operators, and OCR-based data extraction to automate document verification. Long-term plans involve developing an indigenous Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS) for large-scale deduplication using AI, along with state-wise Bharat DeDupe initiatives to eliminate database duplicates. Liveness detection for face, fingerprint, and iris is also being planned to prevent biometric spoofing. These efforts aim to significantly enhance the reliability and security of Aadhaar's identity verification system. Are there plans to incorporate blockchain technology to further secure Aadhaar data? UIDAI currently operates a centralized identity platform based on the Central Identities Data Repository (CIDR) for enrolment validation, authentication, and biometric verification. However, it is also exploring blockchain-based solutions for offline Aadhaar verification. Blockchain, with its decentralized trust model, allows for verifiable credentials where authentication can occur without direct connectivity to CIDR. This approach can enhance data immutability, auditability, and enable secure offline verification through cryptographic proofs. While this could reduce dependency on real-time queries and increase trust, challenges such as scalability, governance, and compliance need to be addressed to align with UIDAI's operational structure. Given the increasing cyber threats, what new security protocols are being developed to protect Aadhaar users? UIDAI has adopted a security and privacy-by-design approach in building the Aadhaar ecosystem. Key security measures include consent-based access to Aadhaar Number Holder (ANH) data, available only to the ANH and authorized Requesting Entities (REs). Data is encrypted both at rest and in transit, ensuring protection throughout its lifecycle. Users can generate a Virtual ID (VID) instead of sharing their Aadhaar number, and they also have the ability to lock and unlock their biometrics to prevent misuse. UIDAI has developed an AI/ML-powered authentication system to detect fraud and continuously reviews and audits the security of CIDR to safeguard its systems. To future-proof against evolving threats, enhancements to encryption protocols are underway to mitigate post-quantum risks, alongside the rollout of a scaled-up fraud management system. How does UIDAI ensure the reliability of biometric authentication, especially for individuals facing fingerprint or iris recognition failures? To address authentication challenges related to fingerprint and iris recognition failures, UIDAI is increasingly promoting the use of face authentication, which has shown higher success rates and greater resilience to functional issues. Face authentication is particularly effective in cases where fingerprint quality is poor or iris scanning faces technical hurdles. As of January 2025, face-based authentication has crossed the 100-crore transaction mark, with an average of 45 to 50 lakh daily transactions, indicating its growing adoption and reliability across the Aadhaar ecosystem. How does UIDAI ensure compliance with legal frameworks, especially after the Supreme Court's rulings on Aadhaar? The Supreme Court's 2018 ruling in the Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) vs. Union of India case was a landmark decision that defined the legal boundaries for Aadhaar's operation, particularly in relation to privacy and data security. In response, UIDAI undertook several measures to align its operations with the Court's directives. The ruling emphasized that Aadhaar usage for non-government services like mobile phone connections and bank accounts must be voluntary. It also mandated strict safeguards for data security and privacy, prohibiting data sharing without individual consent. To comply, UIDAI amended the Aadhaar Act through the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2019. Key provisions included redefining the Aadhaar number to incorporate Virtual ID (VID), allowing voluntary use of physical or electronic Aadhaar for authentication or offline verification, and mandating parental consent for child enrolments. Only entities adhering to prescribed privacy and security standards can now use Aadhaar authentication, and offline verifications are also subject to stringent restrictions on data sharing. Further safeguards include the requirement for judicial orders (from a High Court judge) for accessing identity information under Section 33(1) of the Aadhaar Act, and increased penalties for non-compliance. A new Chapter VIA introduced civil penalties and a framework for adjudication and appeals, while amendments to Section 47 empowered Aadhaar holders to file complaints against privacy violations. UIDAI is also adapting to newer legal developments. Following the enactment of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, and the upcoming rules under it, UIDAI is assessing and updating its technological and legal systems to ensure full compliance with the new data protection regime. What steps has UIDAI taken to ensure Aadhaar data is used responsibly by government and private entities? UIDAI has implemented a robust set of measures to ensure responsible use of Aadhaar data by both government and private entities. The Aadhaar Act, 2016 serves as the legal foundation, clearly stipulating that data can only be used for authorized purposes with the explicit consent of the Aadhaar holder. The Act also enforces penalties for any misuse. To protect user privacy, the authentication process is designed to share only the minimum required information, and users are informed of the purpose during authentication. Advanced encryption techniques secure biometric and demographic data both during storage and transmission. To further enhance privacy, UIDAI introduced Virtual ID (VID), which allows users to authenticate without revealing their actual Aadhaar number. The Limited KYC mechanism ensures only essential data is shared with service providers. Tokenization is another layer of security, replacing Aadhaar numbers with unique tokens for each transaction. UIDAI conducts regular audits of all entities using Aadhaar data to ensure compliance with its stringent privacy and security norms. Non-compliant organizations may face suspension or revocation of their access rights. In addition, the Aadhaar Data Vault policy mandates that Aadhaar numbers be stored in encrypted form within a highly secure environment. UIDAI operates within a broader legal framework that includes the Information Technology Act, 2000, and the Aadhaar (Sharing of Information) Regulations, 2016, which govern the conditions for information sharing and the responsibilities of data handlers. Together, these measures ensure a high standard of accountability in the use of Aadhaar data. How does UIDAI regulate Aadhaar-based authentication services to prevent unauthorized use? UIDAI maintains a comprehensive regulatory framework to prevent unauthorized use of Aadhaar authentication services. The Aadhaar Act, 2016 provides the legal foundation, mandating that authentication can only occur with the explicit consent of the Aadhaar holder. Unauthorized use or data sharing is a punishable offense. To ensure compliance, UIDAI operates a three-tiered audit mechanism, conducting regular audits of entities using Aadhaar data. Entities found in violation of UIDAI's standards may face penalties, suspension, or de-boarding from Aadhaar facilities. Further, UIDAI requires all requesting entities designated as Authentication User Agencies (AUA), e-KYC User Agencies (KUA), and Authentication Service Agencies (ASA) to sign formal agreements. Sub-entities (Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA) are also required to enter joint undertakings. These agreements include strict policy guidelines governing Aadhaar use, and any failure to comply can lead to financial disincentives, penalties, or removal from UIDAI's ecosystem. With the rise of digital identities globally, how does UIDAI benchmark Aadhaar's technological infrastructure against similar systems worldwide? Following the successful implementation of Aadhaar, numerous developed and developing countries have recognized digital identity as a foundational digital public infrastructure (DPI) for effective governance. To stay aligned with global advancements, UIDAI actively monitors evolving technologies such as verifiable credentials, selective disclosure mechanisms, and digital identity wallets. However, any adoption of these enhancements is done in a carefully calibrated manner to ensure adherence to UIDAI's core principles of simplicity, inclusivity, and security, without compromising the integrity of its identity framework.
Gulf News
21-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
How India's Aadhaar became the world's largest biometric system
Facial recognition: The rise of biometrics as a global standard and efficiency booster Last updated: Biometric identification has emerged as a global benchmark for secure authentication and identity verification. India's Aadhaar card, now issued to more than 1 billion people, is the world's biggest such digital identification system, rolled out initially 2009. Aadhaar uses a 12-digit identification number, and serves as a proof of identity and address. Benefits Biometrics offers practical advantages. First, the system is highly accurate, touching nearly 100%, which leads to massive savings and jump in efficiency. Second, because it's mobile-enabled, it helps public welfare programme for millions everywhere – especially those who previously lacked official documentation. Third, it's credited for helping speed things up: easing the delivery of services, enabling tens of millions of pensioners to submit annual life certificates online, facilitating banking, and linking with other identification documents like PAN cards. 1.38 billion number of Aadhaar numbers generated (Source: Unique Identification Authority of India, UIDAI). Global standard It's no longer just science fiction. Its use has extended far beyond illusion, becoming mainstream in everyday applications — from unlocking smartphones to facilitating airport immigration procedures and secure banking transactions. Revolution in identification In a word: it has revolutionised the sub-continent's authentication system. Now, the Aadhaar-based face authentication is 'touching lives', and has greatly improved the ease of living for residents, Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar CEO of UIDAI, told Sansad TV. It's part of a broader strategy. There's a convergence of technologies behind this move. The proliferation of smartphones and digital services Integration of facial recognition in fintech applications, Workplace attendance systems, and Electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) protocols. Cheaper computer processors and servers Industry-standard biometric input and output devices. Modernising governance The integration of biometric facial recognition in India has shown a route towards modernising governance, enhancing public services. India's adoption of biometric facial authentication/recognition technology is a cornerstone of its modernise governance, enhance public service delivery, and strengthen national security. The incorporation of biometric systems — particularly facial authentication/recognition — has been propelled by tech advances, reduced costs, and the increasing need for secure, efficient and digital infrastructure. Studies A study published in the International Journal of Computer Applications by Sharma and Singh (2021) demonstrated that biometric systems, particularly fingerprint and facial recognition, achieved 96–98% accuracy in workplace and banking access control scenarios, significantly outperforming traditional password or ID card-based systems. Satisfaction rate Furthermore, biometric scans are quick, contactless, and hygienic — an increasingly valued feature in a post-pandemic world. According to the FIDO Alliance's Biometric Performance Study (2022), users also reported higher satisfaction and faster access times when using biometric authentication compared to conventional login methods. Aadhaar: The world's largest biometric ID system India's most ambitious biometric initiative is the Aadhaar programme, which has enrolled over 1.4 billion residents using fingerprints, iris scans, and facial recognition to establish unique digital identities. In 2018, the World Bank (2018) lauded Aadhaar as a model for 'digital inclusion'. The efficiency gains are substantial. Aadhaar has been credited with reducing identity fraud and eliminating duplicate or fictitious beneficiaries in government programs, leading to savings of over $11 billion, as per the WB. Public security Facial recognition technology has also been integrated into India's public security infrastructure. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) implemented a centralised Facial Recognition System (FRS) to support law enforcement in identifying suspects, missing persons, and monitoring large-scale public events. Airports and railway stations have adopted facial recognition for surveillance and crowd management, facilitating crime prevention and streamlined passenger processing, according to a 2020 report by India's Ministry of Home Affairs. Challenges India's embrace of biometric technologies aligns with the Digital India initiative, which aims to position the country as a leader in scalable digital public infrastructure, especially for the Global South. While the advantages are, biometric systems are not without their challenges. Key concerns include data privacy and security. The pandemic further accelerated the shift toward contactless, biometric-based authentication, as hygiene concerns heightened the demand for touchless technologies. A 2019 study (Campbell) shows that biometric data, once compromised, cannot be changed like passwords. A notable example is the 2019 breach of Biostar 2, where over a million fingerprint and facial recognition records were exposed. Another study points to 'algorithmic bias'. The MIT Media Lab found in 2018 ("Gender Shades" study) that some facial recognition systems showed high error rates (up to 35%) when identifying darker-skinned women, highlighting concerns around algorithmic bias and systemic discrimination. There's also the matter of mass surveillance and consent. The use of biometrics in public surveillance raises concerns about privacy and overreach (Mozur, 2019). Takeaways Biometric facial recognition technology represents a transformative force in governance, security, and digital identity. India's Aadhaar initiative demonstrates how such technologies can drive inclusive growth, reduce inefficiencies, and foster innovation at scale. As biometric systems become more entrenched in daily life, it is essential to implement robust frameworks for security, data privacy, algorithmic fairness, and public accountability.
