Who doesn’t have an Aadhaar card in India

Kokila Chokkanathan
📍 Introduction: Understanding Aadhaar

The Aadhaar card is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of india (UIDAI) to residents of India. It serves as proof of identity and address and is used for government schemes, subsidies, banking, and more.

Despite its widespread adoption, not every indian has an Aadhaar card. Understanding who is exempt and why can help citizens navigate legal and administrative requirements.

1️⃣ Who Is Eligible for Aadhaar?

  • All residents of India, including children and adults, are eligible.
  • Residents must have lived in india for 182 days or more in the 12 months preceding the enrollment date.
  • Foreign nationals residing in india temporarily are not eligible for Aadhaar.
2️⃣ Categories of people Who Don’t Have Aadhaar

🔹 Infants and Young Children

  • Children below 5 years can be enrolled, but their Aadhaar is linked with parent/guardian’s details.
  • Some families may delay enrollment until children reach 5 years due to mobility or documentation challenges.
🔹 People Without Proof of Residence

  • Aadhaar requires official documents like voter ID, passport, or utility bills.
  • Individuals without any valid ID or proof of address cannot be enrolled.
🔹 Certain Marginalized Groups

  • Nomadic or homeless populations, migrant laborers, and remote rural residents may lack Aadhaar due to accessibility issues.
  • UIDAI has introduced special enrollment drives, but gaps remain.
🔹 Non-Residents or Foreign Nationals

  • Temporary residents, tourists, and foreign nationals living in india for less than 182 days are not eligible for Aadhaar.
3️⃣ Important Facts About Aadhaar Enrollment

🔹 Voluntary but Widely Required

  • While enrollment is technically voluntary, many government services, subsidies, and banking operations require Aadhaar, making it nearly essential.
🔹 Enrollment Is Free

  • There is no fee for Aadhaar registration.
  • Citizens need to visit an official enrollment center and provide biometric and demographic data.
🔹 Children Receive Aadhaar Linked to Parents

  • Children can get Aadhaar at birth or later, but their UID is linked to a parent/guardian.
🔹 Exemptions Exist

  • Certain categories, like tribal populations in remote areas, may get exemptions if enrollment is practically difficult.
4️⃣ Challenges for Those Without Aadhaar

  • Difficulty in opening bank accounts, receiving government subsidies, or filing income tax returns.
  • Limited access to digital and financial services, as many platforms now mandate Aadhaar authentication.
  • Potential exclusion from welfare programs, although uidai and the government have taken steps to reduce barriers.
📌 Conclusion: Who Really Lacks Aadhaar?

While Aadhaar has reached over 1.4 billion Indians, the following groups may still not have it:

Children below 5 whose families have not enrolled them.

People without valid identity or address proof.

Nomadic, homeless, or remote rural populations.

Foreign nationals or temporary residents living in india for less than 182 days.

Understanding these categories is important for policymakers, social workers, and citizens to ensure inclusive access to services.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

For more interesting updates click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel

Find Out More:

Aadhaar

Related Articles: