In a move hailed as a significant boon for parents, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced the waiver of all charges for Aadhaar biometric updates for children aged 7 to 15 years. This decision, effective from October 1, 2025, is expected to benefit approximately six crore children across the country. The waiver will remain in effect for one year, providing ample time for parents to update their children's Aadhaar information.
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology stated that this measure is a "pro-people" initiative designed to ease access to essential services for children. Aadhaar is a crucial document for various purposes, including school admissions, entrance exams, scholarship programs, and availing benefits under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes. Updated biometric data ensures the seamless usage of Aadhaar in these areas.
Under existing regulations, children under the age of five are enrolled in Aadhaar using a photograph, name, date of birth, gender, address, and supporting documents like a birth certificate. Biometric data, such as fingerprints and iris scans, are not captured at this stage because these features are not yet fully developed.
As per the previous rules, a child's fingerprints, iris scans, and photograph were mandatorily required to be updated in their Aadhaar when they reached the age of five. This was termed the first Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU). A second biometric update was required when the child turned 15. Previously, these updates were only free if conducted between the ages of 5 and 7 for the first MBU, and between 15 and 17 for the second MBU. Outside of these age ranges, a fee of ₹125 was charged per update.
With the new waiver, the UIDAI has effectively made the Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) free for all children between the ages of 5 and 17. This eliminates the financial burden for parents who may have missed the earlier free update windows.
The UIDAI has emphasized that timely biometric updates are essential for maintaining the accuracy and reliability of children's Aadhaar data. These updates involve capturing fingerprints, iris scans, and a new photograph to link a child's biometric identity with their existing demographic information.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to take advantage of this one-year waiver and update their children's Aadhaar records as a priority. This will ensure that children can continue to access essential public services without interruption. The UIDAI's initiative reflects its commitment to simplifying Aadhaar-linked access to government services and promoting the well-being of children.
