Centre Makes Aadhaar Authentication Mandatory for PM CARES for Children Scholarship
The Central Government has made Aadhaar authentication or proof of possession of an Aadhaar number necessary for beneficiaries seeking scholarship benefits under the PM CARES for Children Scheme.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has issued a notification in this regard. According to the notification, beneficiaries of the Special Scholarship Scheme under PM CARES for Children, which provides financial assistance to support education from Class 1 to Class 12, will be required to undergo Aadhaar authentication or furnish proof of possession of an Aadhaar number.
However, the notification clarifies that no child will be denied assistance solely because of a failure to authenticate Aadhaar or the absence of an Aadhaar number. In such cases, benefits will be provided after verifying the child’s identity and establishing their relationship with a parent or legal guardian through the prescribed documents.
The notification specifies separate document requirements for beneficiaries below 18 years of age and those aged 18 or above who have not been assigned an Aadhaar number.
Children below 18 years can establish their identity by submitting an Aadhaar enrolment acknowledgement containing the Enrolment ID, along with a document proving their age. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, an Indian passport, or a Class 10 or Class 12 certificate or marks statement issued by a recognised school education board.
For beneficiaries aged 18 years or above, the prescribed documents include a voter identity card issued by the Election Commission, a driving licence, an Indian passport and a ration card, along with other specified identity documents.
The notification also provides for alternative authentication methods wherever feasible if Aadhaar authentication fails. These include biometric verification and one-time password (OTP)-based authentication.
The provisions aim to ensure that eligible children continue to receive educational assistance under the PM CARES for Children Scheme, even if they do not have an Aadhaar number or face difficulties completing Aadhaar authentication.
