In 2009, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) introduced the Aadhaar number as a unique biometric identity proof. This identification system relies on biometric markers like fingerprints and iris scans. And the Aadhaar number is a 12-digit number that is provided to members who enrol with the system.

In 2020, more than a decade after the Aadhaar was introduced, the UIDAI introduced Baal Aadhaar for children in India. Once the child crosses the age of 5, their fingerprints and iris scans need to be updated in the UIDAI database.

Why is Baal Aadhaar Required?

You may have to enrol your child in kindergarten or preschool before the age of 5. At such junctures, these schools will require the child’s Aadhaar as a proof of identity. This is one of the key reasons to obtain Baal Aadhaar for your newborn.

What are the Documents Needed to Apply for Baal Aadhaar?

You will need the following documents to apply for an Aadhaar number for your newborn –

• A copy of your child’s birth certificate or a discharge slip from the government hospital
• The Aadhaar card of either of the parents

If your child is under the age of 5, you need to accompany them to the Aadhaar Seva Kendra for biometric authentication.

How to Apply for Baal Aadhaar Online?

You just need to follow the steps outlined below to apply for a Baal Aadhaar card online.

1. Visit the UIDAI’s official website and select the option to register for a Baal Aadhaar Card online.
2. Head to the Aadhar Card registration page.
3. Fill in the information required, like the name of your child, your phone number, and your email ID.
4. Then, submit the details of your demographic information.
5. Click on the ‘Fix Appointment’ tab to continue.
6. Set a date for registering for the Aadhaar card.
7. Select the nearest enrollment centre.
8. Visit the Aadhaar Card Enrollment Centre chosen.
9. Submit the duly filled form along with the documents needed.
10. Provide your Aadhaar card information and mobile number.
11. After the verification process, your child’s photograph will be taken. Biometrics are not recorded for children under the age of five.
12. If your child is five years of age or older, iris scans and fingerprints will be recorded.
13. You will then receive an acknowledgement slip for future reference.

How to Apply for Baal Aadhaar Offline?

Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for an Aadhaar for your child offline.

1. Head to an Aadhaar Card Enrollment Centre near you.
2. Fill in the details needed in the relevant form for applying for a Baal Aadhaar card.
3. Submit the form along with the supporting documents needed.
4. Provide the details of the parent’s Aadhaar card and mobile number.
5. After the verification process is complete, a photograph of your child will be taken. Biometrics will not be recorded for children under the age of five.
6. If the child is five years of age or older, biometric data like iris scans and fingerprints will be recorded.
7. You will then receive an acknowledgement slip for future reference.
8. A text message will be sent to you within 60 days, and your child’s Baal Aadhaar will also be given to you within this period.

How to check the Aadhaar Card Status?

Once you have applied for the Aadhaar, you can check the Aadhaar card status using the steps listed below.

1. Visit the UIDAI website.
2. From the ‘My Aadhaar’ dropdown, select the ‘Check Aadhaar Status’ option.
3. You will then see a set of different options. Choose ‘Check Enrollment & Update Status.’
4. Enter your Enrolment ID, SRN or URN, and the captcha shown.
5. Submit this information to check your Aadhaar card status.

Conclusion

This sums up how you can apply for Baal Aadhaar online or offline and how you can check the Aadhaar card status to know when the identity proof for your child has been issued. It is important to get your child’s Aadhaar on time, so enrolling the kid in a school is easy and seamless.