The Union Cabinet Approved on the National Identification Authority of India Bill

The Union Cabinet of India approved on 8 October 2013 the National Identification Authority of India Bill that will give statutory status to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).

The new law will provide for the creation of a National Identification Authority of India. It will oversee implementation of the Aadhaar project. It also seeks to define penalties in case of misuse of data collected under the Aadhaar project.

The Unique Identification Authority of India issues the Aadhaar card to residents, currently operates through an executive order.

The cabinet took this decision in the back ground of recent Supreme Court judgment related to Aadhaar cards will not be mandatory for availing services or benefits under Government schemes without any legal status.

Supreme Court Judgment related to that Aadhaar cards

The Supreme Court of India on 23 September 2013 ruled that Aadhaar cards or Unique Identification number (UID) will not be mandatory for availing services or benefits under Government schemes like LPG subsidy, transfer benefits, food security, vehicle registration, scholarships, marriage registration, salaries and provident fund etc.

Main Objective of UIDIA Scheme

• Unique identification project was initially started by the Planning Commission as an initiative that would provide identification for each resident across the country.
• It would be used primarily as the basis for efficient delivery of welfare services. It would also act as a tool for effective monitoring of various programs and schemes of the Government.
• The government also created and approved the position of the Chairperson of the UIDAI.
•Mr. Nandan Nilekani appointed first Chairperson of UIDIA and he holds the rank and status of Cabinet Minister.

About Aadhaar Card

• Adhaar is a unique Identification number issued by UIDAI to individuals for the purpose of establishing unique identification of every single person. It serves as the proof of identity and address anywhere in India.
• Aadhaar is a 12-digit number.
• Aadhaar is not a compulsory, it is voluntary based.
•The Aadhaar number can be used while opening a bank account, applying for passport, booking, e-tickets and many other places where there is a need to give your identity.