How to get new mobile SIM, number without Aadhaar card from May 1

From tomorrow (May 1), you won't need Aadhaar for mobile SIM activation! According to a report by Hindi daily Hindustan published today, telecom companies have created a new app for digital e-KYC which will help complete the customer verification process and activate the SIM within 1-2 hours. The new app for Digital e-KYC will accept other documents for identity and address proof instead of Aadhaar. The new app will also help residents of other states as well as foreign customers. Even if you are living in another state, you would be able to buy a new SIM at your current residence. For digital e-KYC in your case, an OTP will be sent to your local reference number (of your original state) and the verification process will be completed. 

The new app will be rolled out months after the Supreme Court said in a ruling that Aadhaar must not be mandatory for SIM card purchase.

According to the report, the new verification process would become applicable across the country from tomorrow. 

How will you get the SIM card without Aadhaar?

The telecom companies would have to give the licenced version of the new app to its stores and registered vendors. Here, customers seeking a new SIM card will have to submit their original address and ID proof documents. The seller will take the photo of the customer on the spot and upload it in the digital application form available in the app. The form would also require details like location, day, time, date etc. so that it can be verified when and where the photo was uploaded. The seller will also take the photos of the documents and upload them on the app. 

Till now, one can get up to nine SIM on a single ID. However, under the new system, only two SIM cards will be issued on a single ID.