How To Link Aadhaar With Mobile Number
The Supreme Court of India reaffirmed the Constitutionality of Aadhaar, clarifying its mandatory status for services like ITR filing, insurance policies, high-value transactions, etc. However, it’s no longer compulsory for bank accounts, mobile connections, school admissions, and similar services. Nevertheless, linking Aadhaar to your mobile number brings several advantages. It simplifies OTP verifications for various services, eliminating the need for physical Aadhaar copies for ID and address proof. This facilitates online services without the need for in-person visits.
When it was obligatory, telecom companies provided convenient methods, both online and offline, to link Aadhaar with mobile numbers. We’ll guide you through these straightforward steps used for Aadhaar-mobile number linking.
Aadhaar Integration for New Mobile Connection Applicants
Individuals looking to acquire a new mobile connection should visit their nearest telecom provider’s showroom, such as Vodafone, Airtel, Idea, BSNL, TATA Docomo, Jio, and more.
They should complete the application form, providing a copy of their Aadhaar card for both ID and address verification.
Next, their information will be verified using a biometric scanner to scan their fingerprint and Aadhaar details.
Upon activation, the newly issued SIM card will be seamlessly linked to the customer’s Aadhaar.
On the official website of the telecom operator, accessible online
To link Aadhaar, follow these steps on the telecom operator’s official website:
- Visit the official webpage of the telecom operator and select the Aadhaar linking option.
- Provide your mobile number and Aadhaar number.
- A verification OTP will be sent to your mobile number.
- Enter the OTP to complete the Aadhaar verification and linking process.
Aadhaar Linking via SMS for Current Customers:
For existing customers, please follow these steps:
- Visit the nearest showroom of your telecom operator.
- Submit a self-attested copy of your Aadhaar card.
- Utilize the re-verification application to receive a 4-digit OTP on your registered mobile number.
- Share this OTP with the store executive and provide your biometrics.
- The Aadhaar linking process will be completed within 24 hours, and you will receive a confirmation message on your mobile number.
Aadhaar-Mobile Number Linking via IVR Option:
The Government of India introduced a single toll-free number for all mobile users to link their Aadhaar numbers through IVR, applicable to both prepaid and postpaid connections. The linking process was quick, taking less than 5 minutes.
Here’s how it worked:
- Users dialed 14546, a toll-free number, from their phones.
- They selected their residency status, either resident Indians or NRIs.
- Resident Indians entered their 12-digit Aadhaar numbers.
- They verified the Aadhaar number and pressed 1 to confirm.
- Next, they entered the mobile number registered with Aadhaar to receive an OTP.
- Consent was requested to allow the telecom operator to verify their details from the Aadhaar database.
- Users entered the OTP received on the registered mobile number and pressed 1 to complete the re-verification.
- Once re-verification was done, a confirmation SMS was sent to the user.
Purpose of Aadhaar-mobile number linking:
The primary objectives of linking Aadhaar with a mobile number in India include:
- Enhanced Security: Linking Aadhaar with a mobile number helps in verifying the identity of mobile users, reducing the likelihood of fraudulent activities, and enhancing the security of mobile communications.
- KYC Compliance: It ensures that mobile service providers comply with the Know Your Customer (KYC) norms and regulations set by the government. This helps in preventing the use of mobile connections for illegal or criminal activities.
- Targeted Government Services: Aadhaar linkage enables the government to efficiently deliver targeted subsidies, benefits, and services to eligible beneficiaries, reducing leakage and ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients.
- Reduction in Fake SIM Cards: It helps in curbing the creation and usage of fake or unauthorized SIM cards, which can be used for illegal activities.
- National Security: Linking Aadhaar with mobile numbers can aid in national security efforts by providing authorities with a more accurate database of mobile users.
- Easy Authentication: It simplifies the authentication process for various services that require OTP verifications, reducing the need for physical documents and paperwork.
FAQS:
Ques: What is the process to link Aadhaar with a mobile number?
Ans: You can link Aadhaar with your mobile number by visiting your telecom operator’s showroom, using SMS, IVR, or through the operator’s official website. Follow the specific process provided by your operator.
Ques: Is it mandatory to link Aadhaar with a mobile number?
Ans: The Supreme Court of India has clarified that it is not mandatory to link Aadhaar with a mobile number. However, it may be required for certain services and KYC purposes.
Ques: Can NRIs link their Aadhaar with a mobile number?
Ans: Yes, NRIs can link their Aadhaar with a mobile number if they have an Aadhaar card.
Ques: What documents are required to link Aadhaar with a mobile number?
Ans: Generally, you would need your Aadhaar card or Aadhaar number for the linking process. Specific requirements may vary by telecom operator.
Ques: How long does it take to complete the Aadhaar-mobile number linking process? Ans: The time required for Aadhaar-mobile number linking varies but usually takes only a few minutes.
Conclusion:
Linking Aadhaar with your mobile number can be a simple yet important process. While it’s not mandatory for all mobile users, it may be required for specific services and for compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms.
This linking process enhances security, streamlines identity verification, and supports targeted government service delivery. It also simplifies the authentication process for various services, making it convenient for users.`