UIDAI’s New Free Biometric Update for Kids and BaalAadhaar – What You Need to Know

What’s New on UIDAI’s Portal

UIDAI’s official website ( uidai.gov.in ) has rolled out several user‑friendly updates aimed at simplifying Aadhaar services. The changes are especially relevant for parents, students and anyone who needs to keep their Aadhaar data current.

Free Mandatory Biometric Update for Children

All children aged 5 to 17 years can now update their biometric data at no cost. The free Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) is available until 30 September 2026. This includes fingerprint and iris scans for the child’s Aadhaar card.

Playbook – Mobile Number Update Without Queues

The portal’s new Playbook feature lets users change their registered mobile number directly from the dashboard, bypassing the usual queue‑based process.

BaalAadhaar – Child‑Friendly Enrollment

UIDAI has introduced BaalAadhaar, a simplified enrollment pathway for children. It uses fewer documents and a more straightforward verification process.

Other Handy Features in the Aadhaar App

• Lock or unlock biometric data
• Address update using documents or a family member’s Aadhaar
• Download Aadhaar PDF instantly
• Track status of all Aadhaar-related updates

Finding a Nearest Seva Kendra

Services that require in‑person assistance can be accessed at the nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra. The UIDAI portal provides a locator tool to find the closest center.

How to Use These Services

Step‑by‑Step: Updating Biometrics

1. Log in to the UIDAI portal with your Aadhaar number and password.
2. Navigate to the Mandatory Biometric Update section.
3. Select the child’s Aadhaar record and choose the biometric modality (fingerprint or iris).
4. Follow the on‑screen instructions to capture new biometric data at a registered center.
5. Confirm the update; the portal will display the new status once processed.

Step‑by‑Step: Updating Mobile Number

1. Open the Playbook tab on the portal.
2. Enter the new mobile number and verify via OTP.
3. Save changes; the update is reflected immediately in your account.

Step‑by‑Step: Enrolling for BaalAadhaar

1. Go to the BaalAadhaar section on the portal.
2. Fill in the child’s details and upload the required documents (e.g., birth certificate).
3. Submit the application; a confirmation will be sent to your registered mobile number.
4. Complete the verification at a nearby Seva Kendra if required.

Quick Reference Table

Service	Eligibility	Cost	Deadline
Mandatory Biometric Update	Children 5‑17 yrs	Free	30 Sep 2026
Mobile Number Update (Playbook)	All Aadhaar holders	Free	Ongoing
BaalAadhaar Enrollment	Children 0‑17 yrs	Free	Ongoing
Biometric Lock/Unlock	All Aadhaar holders	Free	Ongoing

Current Search Interest

Google Trends shows a modest search interest for “uidai” in India, with a normalized score of 5 and a 20 % decline over the past year. This indicates that many users rely on the official portal rather than searching online for help.

For real‑time trend data, visit Google Trends.