When we say ‘one card’ for every citizen, an Aadhaar card tops the list, and Aadhaar benefits extend beyond an identification card. Introduced in 2009 by the Government of India under the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), it's the backbone of India's digital infrastructure.
Over the years, the 12-digit Aadhaar number, unique to every individual, has enabled fair and square access to government schemes, secured digital transactions, and seamless verification processes – playing an important role in our lives by becoming the primary document for identity proof. And there’s more to it. So, read on to learn the benefits of an Aadhaar card.
The implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has reformed and re-engineered the welfare scheme process in India. It ensures a simpler and faster flow of aid directly to deprived beneficiaries, reducing delays, duplication, and fraud.
DBT is a high-priority area for the Government to realise its dream of maximum governance and minimum government. With the Aadhaar card linked to bank accounts, the Government has increased transparency, which is helpful in the delivery of welfare schemes – making the subsidised resources reach legitimate and right hands efficiently.
Aadhaar acts as a primary proof of identity without the hassle of carrying multiple documents. Nationwide, it is a government-approved document, no matter where one uses it or chooses to apply for other mandatory documents, such as a driver's license or PAN, or even renting an apartment and travelling.
An Aadhaar card becomes the go-to for authentication and verification with all the information in one place – proof of residence, age, and the individual’s photo.
The outcome of an Aadhaar card biometric verification mechanism ensures that no two individuals share the same Aadhaar card number. It minimises the risk of duplication and is highly effective in reducing the misuse of unauthorised access to government schemes and financial services.
Aadhaar-based OTP authentication system is an added layer of security for digital services like online banking, filing tax returns, and even voting for those unable to present a Voter’s ID. It ensures that personal data and financial information remain protected and limits the occurrence of identity theft and fraud.
Aadhaar is legitimate proof of identity authentication. Likewise, Aadhaar’s recognition as a valid ID can be through a physical card, digital e-Aadhaar, the mAadhaar mobile app, and DigiLocker, an initiative for paperless governance.
Generating a photocopy of the original document while travelling in any state of the country is possible without any hassle. It is a smooth and time-saving process that does not require extra effort.
Earlier, an individual had to submit multiple documents to open a bank account. But those are long gone days. Today, an Aadhaar card holder can open a bank account anywhere in the country.
Additionally, one of the benefits of linking an Aadhaar card to a bank account is that millions of underbanked Indians get access to basic banking services. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Aadhaar Enabled Payment Systems (AEPS) make banking simple, enabling easy payments, quick fund transfers, and seamless access to financial services.
An Aadhaar card grants the cardholder access to all the important government subsidies for which one is eligible. These subsidies and welfare schemes are available across food, healthcare, and education.
Government schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana or the Public Distribution System ensure resources are accessible and reach those who need them most at a subsidised rate. For instance, by linking their Aadhaar card to their LPS gas connection, individuals can avail of LPG subsidies directly into their bank accounts, reducing the risk of fraudulent claims.
The entire process of making an appointment with the authorities to review the application, dispatching, and conducting verification checks with the local police used to feel overwhelming.
But not now. With Aadhaar, one can use it as a residence and identity proof for passport application, as it has an individual’s comprehensive biometric data. The process, which once took a long time, is now simplified, allowing one to get their passport in a much shorter period.
The Digital India initiative is evident, with Aadhaar as a key enabler of this transformation. It supports the government’s digital ecosystem and benefits millions by reducing identity theft and fraud – truly acting as a ‘one card’ for citizens.
One such example of Aadhaar benefits is that, for instance, when applying for a fully digital and paperless personal loan or credit card through Quid, all you need is a few essential documents—one of them being your Aadhaar card.
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