Overview
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is partnering with Behavioural Insights Limited (BIT) to enhance the adoption of Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) among children. This initiative aims to improve access to vital services by ensuring timely biometric updates in Aadhaar for children aged 5 and 15.
Key Developments
- Partnership: UIDAI has partnered with Behavioural Insights Limited (BIT) to address behavioural, logistical, and awareness-related barriers to MBU.
- Objective: To increase MBU in Aadhaar for 5 and 15-year-olds, ensuring seamless access to services and benefits.
- Interventions: Tailored behavioural interventions will be designed, tested, and implemented to encourage Aadhaar MBU updates.
- Charge Waiver: UIDAI has waived all charges for MBU for children, effective from 1 October 2025, for a period of one year.
- Expected Benefit: The waiver is expected to benefit around 6 crore children.
Statements
Bhuvnesh Kumar, CEO UIDAI, stated, “When technology is aligned with human behaviour, digital identity evolves from a purely technical process into a more seamless, trustworthy, and empowering experience. Through this MoU, we hope to achieve this effect.”
Rachel Coyle, CEO of BIT, underlined that a new evidence-based understanding of human behaviour can boost updates of Aadhaar and help Aadhaar number holders get access to crucial public services.
Exam Relevance
This initiative is relevant to GS2: Government Policies and Interventions, focusing on the use of technology and behavioral insights to improve the effectiveness of government programs. It also touches upon GS3: Science and Technology, specifically the application of biometric technology for identification and service delivery.
Important Facts
- Aadhaar Enrollment: Once enrolled in Aadhaar, a child needs to update biometrics (fingerprint, iris, and photo) at age 5 and again at age 15.
- UIDAI Efforts: UIDAI has been making continuous efforts to enhance MBU adoption among the target groups.
- Pro-People Measure: UIDAI has waived off all charges for MBU for the 7-15 age group.