In India, Aadhaar has become an important document for identity verification in many areas of life. For children under 5 years of age, there is a special version called the Blue Aadhaar Card. It has unique features and a simple application process. Let’s understand what the Blue Aadhaar Card is, who can apply for it, how to apply, and why it is important.
What is a Blue Aadhaar Card?
The Blue Aadhaar Card, also known as Baal Aadhaar, is a special Aadhaar card issued for children below 5 years of age. It is different from the regular Aadhaar Card in the following ways:
Printed in a distinct blue color
No fingerprint or iris scan required
Linked with the child’s demographic information and a facial photograph
Free of cost
Mandatory update required after the child turns 5 years old
Although biometrics are not collected, the Blue Aadhaar still acts as a valid identity proof and helps children access important services.
Why is the Blue Aadhaar Card Important?
Having a Blue Aadhaar Card is very useful because:
It serves as valid identity proof for government welfare schemes
It is needed for school admissions and vaccination tracking
It is useful for opening bank accounts for children
It helps in a smooth transition to a full Aadhaar Card after the child turns 5 years old
Thus, even though it is not compulsory, getting a Blue Aadhaar Card early is a smart choice for parents.
Who is Eligible for a Blue Aadhaar Card?
The following conditions must be fulfilled to apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card:
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Child must be below 5 years |
| Parent’s Aadhaar | Mandatory |
| Proof of Birth | Birth Certificate or Hospital Slip |
| Proof of Residence | Parent’s address proof |
| Nationality | Indian citizen |
The parent’s Aadhaar details are linked with the child’s Blue Aadhaar for verification purposes.
How to Apply for a Blue Aadhaar Card
Applying for a Blue Aadhaar Card is simple and free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Visit the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Center.
Fill in the Aadhaar Enrolment Form for the child.
Submit the parent’s Aadhaar Card and the child’s birth proof.
The child’s photograph will be captured.
Submit the form and collect the acknowledgment slip.
The Blue Aadhaar Card will be generated and sent to your registered address.
No fee is charged for applying for a Blue Aadhaar Card.
Documents Required for Blue Aadhaar Card
Make sure you carry the following documents when visiting the Aadhaar center:
| Document Type | Accepted Proofs |
|---|---|
| Proof of Birth | Birth Certificate or Hospital Discharge Slip |
| Parent’s Aadhaar | Aadhaar Card of mother or father |
| Proof of Residence | Passport, Electricity Bill, Rental Agreement |
| Photograph | Captured at the enrollment center |
| Relationship Proof (if asked) | Passport or Family ID |
Always check with the local Aadhaar center for any additional documents needed.
Updating the Blue Aadhaar After 5 Years
Once the child turns 5 years old, it is mandatory to update the Blue Aadhaar with biometric information. Here’s how to do it:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit an Aadhaar Seva Kendra |
| 2 | Submit the existing Blue Aadhaar Card |
| 3 | Capture new biometrics: fingerprints and iris scan |
| 4 | Update the photograph if needed |
| 5 | Verify all demographic details |
| 6 | Collect acknowledgment slip |
| 7 | Receive updated Aadhaar Card by post |
The update process is free of charge.
Common Questions About Blue Aadhaar Card
Q1: Is getting a Blue Aadhaar compulsory?
No, it is voluntary but highly recommended for availing government services and early documentation.
Q2: Is there any fee for applying?
No, enrollment for the Blue Aadhaar Card is completely free.
Q3: Can we apply online?
No, physical presence at the Aadhaar center is necessary to capture the child’s photograph.
Q4: What happens if we don’t update after 5 years?
If not updated, the Blue Aadhaar will become inactive.
Q5: Can NRIs apply for Blue Aadhaar?
Yes, if the child has stayed in India for at least 182 days in the past 12 months.
Conclusion
The Blue Aadhaar Card is an important document for children under 5 years of age. It helps in school admissions, accessing healthcare services, and availing government welfare schemes. Applying for it is simple, free, and beneficial for the child’s future needs. Make sure to update the Aadhaar once the child crosses 5 years to keep it active and useful.
For the latest information, always refer to the official UIDAI website or visit your nearest Aadhaar Seva Kendra.