Centre plans Aadhaar-based ID checks for concerts, cigarette purchases, more
What's the story
The Indian government is gearing up to launch a new Aadhaar app that will enable identity checks for a range of activities, including attending concerts and hospitals or verifying food delivery personnel or purchasin cigarettes and alcohol. The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) is also working on new regulations to support these expanded authentication scenarios. The app's main goal is to simplify identity verification while introducing privacy controls and selective data sharing.
Privacy features
Aadhaar app to introduce selective data sharing
With Aadhaar app's selective data sharing, users can choose which information they want to share for a particular service. For instance, if someone wants to attend an event, they could just share their name and photo instead of all their Aadhaar number and address. A cigarette purchase may need only an "above 18" age check, with no other details shared. The app will also have an offline proof-of-presence system using on-device facial verification technology.
Verification process
Offline verification seeking entity to confirm presence
The organization that wants to verify the user's identity will be known as an Offline Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE) (think of exam centers). It will get a signed confirmation that the user was physically present at the time of verification. UIDAI clarified that this feature is different from face authentication used by government departments and banks today. It aims to avoid constant database connectivity or full-fledged Authentication User Agencies (AUAs).
Versatile applications
Aadhaar app's potential use cases across sectors
The new Aadhaar app could be used in various public and private sector scenarios. These include hotel check-ins, gated society access control, office entry, hospital admissions, student verification during exams, workforce checks for cab aggregators and food delivery platforms. It could also be used for age-gated purchases and entry to cinemas/public events/concerts. In each case, organizations will use a QR code that Aadhaar holders can scan to share their credentials.
Legal compliance
New app to combat illegal Aadhaar information retrieval
The new Aadhaar app also addresses the issue of businesses illegally retrieving Aadhaar information by asking customers to fetch it from the UIDAI website using OTP-based login. The app provides a legal, consent-driven way that doesn't come with the financial and technical burden of becoming an Aadhaar User Agency (ADA). UIDAI will soon issue new regulations governing offline verification through this app, giving legal backing to how credentials are shared and stored.