Your Aadhaar card has just been made friendlier by Modi Cabinet; you benefit hugely

Aadhaar card number is one of the most transformational changes effected by the government that impacts the public. However, there was an issue that turned negative for most people as it was being demanded by virtually every corporate and public entity as proof of identity and address. If not provided, then people were denied services that were their right. Now, things have changed and Aadhaar card has become much more friendlier for all. 

The Cabinet on Wednesday cleared a Bill that allows voluntary usage of Aadhaar card as an identity proof for opening bank accounts, getting a mobile phone connection or any other service. Cabinet will introduce The Aadhaar Amendment Bill 2019 in the ensuing session of Parliament, as per an official release. The bill replaces the Aadhaar ordinance and seeks some changes in the Aadhaar Act like giving a child an option to exit from the biometric ID programme on attaining 18 years of age. The amendment also provides various stiff penalties for violation of norms set for the use of Aadhaar card. 

The official release said that the decision would enable UIDAI (Unique Identification Authority of India) to have a better and stable system to give best service to the public and curtail the misuse of Aadhaar card. After this amendment, no individual shall be compelled to provide proof of possession of Aadhaar card or go through authentication for the purpose of establishing his identity, unless it is provided by a law made by Parliament. 

"For the convenience of the ordinary public in the opening of bank accounts, the proposed amendments allow the use of Aadhaar number for authentication on a voluntary basis as acceptable KYC (Know Your Customer) document, as per the Telegraph Act, 1885 and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002," an official release added.