For parents in India, Aadhaar is more than a number, it’s a digital identity linked with biometrics, including photographs, fingerprints, and iris scans. Recently, the government has emphasized that children must undergo Mandatory Biometric Updates (MBU) at ages 5 and 15.
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has asked schools across the country to ensure timely updates for children in these age groups. UIDAI chief Bhuvnesh Kumar has written to the chief secretaries of all states and union territories, urging them to organize special biometric update camps in schools to clear pending updates.
With over 17 crore Aadhaar numbers requiring updates, this initiative is vital to ensure accurate citizen data and smooth access to services. In this blog, we explain what these updates are, why they matter and how parents can complete them without stress.
Aadhaar Biometric Updates Are Mandatory for Children
Aadhaar biometric updates are critical because children’s features change as they grow. Fingerprints, iris patterns and facial features evolve significantly in childhood and adolescence.
- MBU 1 (Ages 5–7): Children’s fingerprints and iris scans become more defined, making biometric identification more reliable.
- MBU 2 (Ages 15–17): Adolescents’ growth changes facial features and iris patterns, requiring a second update for accuracy.
If a child fails to update their biometrics within two years of reaching these ages, their Aadhaar may be temporarily deactivated, potentially causing problems in schools, banking or government services.
0
Bad
Check your Credit Score for Free
Your credit score is updated monthly and gives you insight into your creditworthiness. Take control of your financial future today.
What the Government Has Announced
According to a press release from the Ministry of Electronics & IT:
- MBU 1 (age 5–7) is free. After age 7, it becomes chargeable at ₹100 (from September 1, ₹120).
- MBU 2 (age 15–17) is free. After age 17, charges apply.
- Schools are tasked with tracking pending MBUs and organizing update camps to prevent delays.
Delayed updates can affect children during:
- School registrations
- Entrance exams like NEET, JEE, or CUET
- Government scholarships and welfare schemes
By updating biometrics early, parents can avoid last-minute rushes, stress and potential denial of benefits.
How UIDAI and Schools Are Making Updates Easier
To simplify the process, UIDAI has partnered with the Ministry of Education to use the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) platform.
- This system already tracks schools, students, and teachers nationwide.
- Schools can now see which children still need biometric updates, allowing them to organize camp-style updates efficiently.
According to Bhuvnesh Kumar, this technology ensures that no child misses the mandatory biometric update. Even schools in remote areas can track pending updates accurately.
Who Needs to Update Aadhaar Biometric?
Parents or guardians of children who already have an Aadhaar must ensure updates are done at:
- Ages 5–7 (MBU 1)
- Ages 15–17 (MBU 2)
Important Details:
- Biometric updates include fingerprints, iris scans, and photographs.
- Both parents or guardians may need to accompany the child.
- Updates are free within the age ranges mentioned above.
Failing to update can temporarily deactivate the Aadhaar, which may block access to bank accounts, school admissions, or government benefits.
Personal Loan
Quick Approval in 24 Hours
💰 No processing fee for first 100 customers | ⚡ Digital KYC in 5 minutes
Steps for Parents to Update Children’s Aadhaar Biometrics
Updating your child’s Aadhaar biometric may seem complicated, but following these simple steps makes it quick and stress-free. Here’s how:
Step 1: Locate the Nearest Aadhaar Enrollment Center
Use the UIDAI website or call the helpline to find a verified center.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
Bring the following:
- Child’s Aadhaar card
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate, school ID or passport)
- Parent/guardian’s identity proof
Step 3: Schedule an Appointment (Optional)
Many centers offer online appointments to avoid long waiting times.
Step 4: Biometric Scanning
- Fingerprints of all ten fingers
- Iris scan
- Facial photo update if necessary
Step 5: Verify and Submit
Check that all details are correct before submission.
Step 6: Receive Acknowledgment
The center provides a receipt confirming the update and changes reflect online within 1-3 days.
Benefits of Updating Aadhaar Biometric for Children
Updating Aadhaar is more than a formality, it ensures your child can access essential services and avoids problems in the future.
- Smooth verification for schools and government schemes
- Fast processing for scholarships and bank accounts
- Accurate biometric authentication for digital services
- Prevents identity verification problems during exams or registrations
Tips for Parents
These practical tips can help parents complete Aadhaar updates efficiently and without any hassle.
- Carry original documents only; photocopies won’t be accepted.
- Ensure the child’s fingers are clean and dry for fingerprint scanning.
- Remove contact lenses if iris scanning is required.
- Book appointments online if possible.
- Update Aadhaar before school registration or applying for government schemes.
How Aadhaar Updates Help in the Long Term
Keeping biometric data up-to-date ensures that your child’s identity remains valid for a lifetime, making it easier to access education, banking and government services.
Accurate Aadhaar ensures children can:
- Access scholarships and education benefits
- Open bank accounts or savings schemes for minors
- Avail government welfare programs like ration cards or health benefits
Parents who update biometric data early help their children avoid hurdles later, ensuring seamless access to services.
Conclusion
The government’s push to update Aadhaar biometric data for children at 5 and 15 years ensures secure, accurate, and reliable identity verification. Parents should take this seriously to prevent delays in school admissions, scholarship applications and access to government schemes.
By visiting a verified Aadhaar center, preparing the required documents, and completing updates on time, parents can avoid last-minute stress. Timely Aadhaar updates help children access essential services smoothly and establish a secure digital identity from an early age.
Download the Buddy Loan app now!
Get the free Buddy Loan app on your phone
