New Delhi: The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is reportedly planning a significant overhaul of the Aadhaar card format, with new rules expected to be considered in December 2025. This major redesign, which aims to curb data misuse and reinforce user privacy, would strip the physical card of most printed personal details, leaving only the photograph and a secure QR code.
The change, according to statements made by UIDAI CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar at recent online conferences, is designed to push entities toward secure digital verification and away from the risky practice of collecting and storing physical photocopies.
Key Changes Proposed for the Physical Aadhaar Card
Under the proposed new system, the physical Aadhaar card is expected to display minimal information:
- New Format: The card may only feature the holder’s photograph and an encrypted QR code.
- Removed Details: Sensitive personal data, including the cardholder’s full name, address, Date of Birth (DoB), and the 12-digit Aadhaar number, may be removed from the face of the card.
- Rationale for Privacy: CEO Bhuvnesh Kumar emphasized that printing personal details encourages their misuse. He highlighted that many establishments, such as hotels, event organizers, and residential societies, continue to collect and store photocopies of Aadhaar cards, contrary to the Aadhaar Act, leading to potential data theft and identity fraud.
- Official Stance: “Aadhaar should never be used as a document. It should only be authenticated with the Aadhaar number or verified using a QR code. Otherwise, it can be a fake document,” Kumar reportedly stated, signaling a clear shift in how Aadhaar should be used for identity verification.
Focus on Secure Digital Verification
To facilitate this transition, the UIDAI is preparing to launch a sophisticated new Aadhaar app that will replace the existing mAadhaar application.
- QR Code & Face Authentication: This updated application will enable QR code-based verification combined with Facial Recognition technology.
- Seamless Verification: The new system will allow organizations (referred to as OVSEs – Offline Verification Seeking Entities) to securely verify an individual’s identity and physical presence for services like hotel check-ins, event entries, and age-restricted purchases.
- User Control: The app will give users greater control over their data, allowing them the flexibility to share either complete or selective Aadhaar information with the verifying entity.
Timeline
The proposal for this major rule change is expected to be taken up for official consideration by the Aadhaar authority on December 1, 2025.
The move is seen as aligning India’s digital identity framework with the principles of the upcoming Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, enhancing security and privacy for all Aadhaar holders.
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