Blue Aadhaar Card : In a move to bring every citizen under a digital identity umbrella, the government has introduced a special version of the Aadhaar card known as the “Blue Aadhaar Card.” This unique ID is issued specifically for children below the age of five. While it holds the same purpose as a regular Aadhaar card, it has certain differences and specific usage rules that parents must understand. Let’s explore everything you need to know about the Blue Aadhaar Card.
What Is the Blue Aadhaar Card?
The Blue Aadhaar Card, officially referred to as “Baal Aadhaar,” is a unique identification card issued to children aged 0 to 5 years. Unlike the regular Aadhaar card that includes biometric data such as fingerprints and iris scans, the Blue Aadhaar does not capture biometric details. It serves as an identity proof for children and becomes mandatory for several government benefits and educational purposes.
Key Features of Blue Aadhaar Card:
- Issued for children under 5 years of age
- No biometric data collected
- Blue in color to differentiate from regular Aadhaar
- Mandatory for school admissions and government schemes
- Must be updated with biometrics after the child turns 5
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Who Is Eligible for a Blue Aadhaar Card?
The Blue Aadhaar Card is exclusively issued to:
- Newborn babies
- Toddlers and infants up to 5 years old
- Children born in India who are residents of the country
It can be applied for voluntarily by the parents or guardians at the nearest Aadhaar enrollment center or via special Aadhaar camps held at hospitals and community centers.
How to Apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card
Getting a Baal Aadhaar for your child is a simple and free process. Here’s how you can apply:
Documents Required:
- Child’s birth certificate
- One parent’s Aadhaar card
- Child’s photograph (taken at the enrollment center)
Application Process:
- Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center
- Fill in the Aadhaar enrollment form for the child
- Provide the child’s birth certificate and parent’s Aadhaar
- Photograph of the child will be captured at the center
- No fingerprints or iris scan required
- Aadhaar will be linked to the parent’s Aadhaar
- The Blue Aadhaar card will be delivered via post
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Differences Between Blue Aadhaar and Regular Aadhaar
| Feature | Blue Aadhaar (Baal Aadhaar) | Regular Aadhaar |
|---|---|---|
| Age Group | 0 to 5 years | 5 years and above |
| Biometric Data | Not collected | Mandatory |
| Card Color | Blue | White |
| Photograph | Yes | Yes |
| Parent Aadhaar Link | Required | Not necessary |
| Mandatory Update at Age 5 | Yes | No |
| Usage | Government schemes, school admission | Full-scale ID and verification use |
Where Is the Blue Aadhaar Card Required?
Although not used for biometric-based verifications, the Blue Aadhaar Card plays an important role in the following:
- Enrolling children in government welfare schemes
- Hospital records and immunization tracking
- Admission to nursery and primary schools
- Obtaining birth-related benefits under schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana
- Linking to ration cards or health schemes for child welfare
Update Requirement After 5 Years
One of the most critical rules of the Blue Aadhaar is the mandatory biometric update after the child turns 5 years old.
What Needs to Be Updated?
- Fingerprints of all 10 fingers
- Iris scan of both eyes
- Facial photograph
Update Process:
- Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra
- Provide original Baal Aadhaar
- Update biometric information
- New Aadhaar with updated biometrics will be issued
Failure to update may lead to the deactivation of the Blue Aadhaar, which may block access to schemes or benefits.
Benefits of the Blue Aadhaar Card
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Identity Proof for Children | Acts as an official ID for kids under 5 |
| Easy Access to Welfare Schemes | Required for child-focused government schemes |
| Smooth School Admissions | Helps streamline the admission process in many schools |
| Birth Registration Linkage | Acts as a continuation of identity post birth certificate |
| Simplifies Record-Keeping | Hospitals and schools can maintain digital records |
| Foundation for Digital Identity | Transitions smoothly to full Aadhaar at age 5 |
| Government Subsidies | Helps in availing subsidies in healthcare and nutrition programs |
Common FAQs about the Blue Aadhaar Card
Is the Blue Aadhaar Card Mandatory?
No, but it is highly recommended and often required for various child services and benefits.
Can Blue Aadhaar Be Used as a Valid ID Proof?
Yes, it is considered a valid ID proof for children below 5.
What Happens If I Don’t Update After 5 Years?
The card may become inactive, and services may be denied until biometric updates are completed.
Can I Apply for It Online?
The initial enrollment must be done in person, but you can book an appointment online.
The Blue Aadhaar Card is a thoughtful initiative by the government to ensure that every child in India has a digital identity right from birth. While it doesn’t collect biometric data initially, it still plays a crucial role in enabling access to various benefits and services. Parents are advised to get this card for their children as early as possible and ensure timely biometric updates at the age of five.
The information provided above is based on government guidelines as of the latest update. For specific queries or procedural changes, please visit the official UIDAI website or contact an authorized Aadhaar enrollment center.
