Aadhaar-SIM linking: Can do it at home using OTP-based system
What's the story
If you haven't linked your Aadhaar and SIM yet, you can soon do that sitting at home, thanks to a new OTP-based system being rolled out on 1 January. The voice-guided system would complete the SIM verification via One-Time Password (OTP). Mobile subscribers have to complete the Aadhaar-SIM linking by 6 February; mobile connections would be disconnected otherwise. Here's more about the OTP-based system.
Steps
How to use the OTP Aadhaar-SIM linking system?
Mobile subscribers should call the Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) from their mobiles to complete the procedure in English, Hindi, and many other regional languages. After giving the consent, the user receives an OTP on the mobile for the verification of the Aadhaar number. Once the OTP is verified, the mobile number also gets verified within a certain period.
Details
OTP-based system, the most convenient facility
The OTP-based Aadhaar-SIM linking system is considered the most convenient route for mobile subscribers, who have a deadline for getting their numbers verified by the first week of February. It is convenient because users don't have to physically visit mobile company stores or face issues in case the existing verification systems fail. People have been complaining about faulty biometric machines at such outlets.
Issues
UIDAI prematurely announced commencement of OTP system: Telecom body
The OTP-based Aadhaar linking process is being launched after a tussle between UIDAI, telcos, and telecom industry body Cellular Operators Association of India (COAI). COAI said UIDAI announced the OTP-based system prematurely, when the process was still under discussions. Telecom companies indicated to UIDAI that the existing Customer Acquisition Form (CAF) needs to be modified for implementing the OTP system.
Status
Many mobile users still haven't linked Aadhaar
After the Centre asked mobile users to link their Aadhaar and mobile numbers, many subscribers have begun the linking process. However, many soon complained it was getting difficult to complete the verification by visiting the mobile companies' customer centers. As of now, over 50 crore mobile subscribers haven't yet linked their numbers.