Baal Aadhaar Card - For Children Under 5 Years

Unless you've been living under a rock, you'd know that the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) issues a unique 12-digit identification number known as the aadhaar card to every individual in the country, utilising their biometric and demographic data. This document is of utmost importance and must be shown for various purposes and to avail government schemes and benefits.

The Aadhaar card is essential for all individuals, regardless of their age, be it a child below five years or a senior citizen above sixty. Despite this, many individuals still have questions regarding obtaining an Aadhaar card for newborns. In response to these concerns, the UIDAI has introduced a new system to streamline the application process for Aadhaar cards for children under five years of age, making it more convenient for parents. In this article, we will explain what a Baal Aadhaar card entails and guide the straightforward online registration process for a Baal Aadhaar card.

Understanding the Baal Aadhaar Card

A Baal Aadhaar card, also called an Aadhaar card for babies, is specifically issued to children under five. Distinguished by its blue colour, the Baal Aadhaar card serves as an identification document for these young individuals.

The following characteristics define a Baal Aadhaar card:

• Intended for children below the age of 5
• Biometric data of the child is not required for obtaining the Baal Aadhaar card as the child's biometric data is collected only after reaching five years of age
• It necessitates a photograph of the child and a valid birth certificate
• Parents of the child must submit one of their Aadhaar cards as well
• Upon attaining age 15, the child must submit documents and, if needed, update their biometric information
• Biometric data can be updated at a later stage if required

Documents Required for Baal Aadhaar

The Aadhaar application doesn't require biometric data for children below five years of age. Instead, the Aadhaar card will be processed and authenticated based on the demographic information and photographs of the parents. It's important to note that once a child reaches age five, their database must include biometric data, such as fingerprints.

The following documents are required for this process:

• The original birth certificate of the child
• Aadhaar card of either parent
• Original copies of both documents for verification

How to Apply for Baal Aadhaar Online?

Here are the steps to apply for an Aadhaar card online for children under five years:

• Gather all the necessary documents and information
• Visit the UIDAI website and select 'Book an Appointment' under the 'Get Aadhar' section
• Provide location details and click 'Proceed' to schedule an appointment
• Choose the 'New Aadhar' option and enter your mobile number to generate an OTP
• Complete the Personal Details section with all required information and click 'Proceed'
• Select a suitable time slot for your appointment and click 'Next'
• Click 'Submit' to confirm your appointment
• Visit the selected Aadhaar Enrolment Centre for further processing

How to Apply for Baal Aadhaar Offline?

The application process for obtaining a Baal Aadhaar card closely mirrors that of a regular Aadhaar card. Parents of the child are required to follow these steps:

• Locate the nearest Aadhaar enrolment centre through online resources and visit it to initiate the application process
• Complete the Aadhaar enrolment form provided at the enrolment centre
• Submit valid documents along with one of the parent's Aadhaar card details
• Upon submission of the Aadhaar enrolment form and necessary documents, the executive will issue an acknowledgement slip. This slip enables tracking of the Aadhaar card's status
• It typically takes approximately 90 days to receive the Baal Aadhaar card

How to Check the Status of an Aadhaar Card Application?

To check whether your child's Aadhaar card has been generated or modified, have the Enrolment ID (EID) ready and follow these simple steps:

• Visit the official UIDAI website
• Click on 'My Aadhaar'
• Provide the EID and the enrolment date and time from the acknowledgment slip
• Complete the Captcha verification
• Click on 'Verify Status'

Linking Aadhaar Cards on mAadhaar App

The mAadhaar app allows parents to link their mobile numbers to their child's Aadhaar card. This user-friendly app accommodates up to three Aadhaar cards, allowing parents to access their child's essential details anytime, anywhere, directly from their smartphone. These details serve as valid proof of both identity and address.

Conclusion

Aadhaar cards are pivotal identification documents for individuals of all ages. For children under five, the Baal Aadhaar card ensures a secure and unique identity from an early age. It simplifies access to essential services and benefits, setting the stage for a brighter future. Parents and guardians are encouraged to enrol their young children on Aadhaar, ensuring they avail the advantages of this essential identification document right from the start of their lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the enrolment fee for a Baal Aadhaar card?

A: There is no fee associated with applying for a Baal Aadhaar card; the process is entirely free of charge.

2. Is it possible to obtain an Aadhaar card without supporting documents?

A: While the submission of supporting documents is a mandatory requirement for obtaining an Aadhaar card, in cases where an applicant lacks the necessary documentation, they can still apply with the assistance of an introducer.

3. How much time does it take to receive a Baal Aadhaar card?

A: The process of obtaining a Baal Aadhaar card typically takes approximately 90 days.

4. Is it obligatory to update an Aadhaar card once an individual reaches the age of 15?

A: Yes, updating a child's Aadhaar card, including their biometrics and photograph, is mandatory once they reach the age of 15.