The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated more than 2 crore Aadhaar numbers belonging to deceased individuals as part of a nationwide clean-up drive. The initiative aims to strengthen database accuracy, prevent identity fraud, and stop misuse of Aadhaar-linked welfare benefits, according to the Ministry of Electronics & IT.
Inside the announcement
According to Financial Express, ABP Live, and Business Today, UIDAI sourced data on deceased persons from multiple agencies including the Registrar General of India (RGI), state governments, Union Territories, the Public Distribution System (PDS), and the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). The authority also launched an online facility on the myAadhaar portal earlier this year, allowing families to report the death of a member directly for deactivation.
Officials emphasized that the clean-up drive is critical to maintaining the integrity of India’s digital identity ecosystem. UIDAI is also exploring collaborations with banks and financial institutions to further streamline the process of identifying deceased individuals.
Notable updates
• Over 2 crore Aadhaar numbers deactivated in nationwide clean-up drive
• Data sourced from RGI, states/UTs, PDS, and NSAP
• Online facility launched for families to report deaths via myAadhaar portal
• Initiative aims to prevent identity fraud and misuse of welfare benefits
• UIDAI considering partnerships with banks for future data integration
Major takeaway
This large-scale deactivation underscores UIDAI’s proactive approach to safeguarding India’s digital identity framework. By removing inactive records and enabling easier reporting mechanisms, the authority is reinforcing trust, transparency, and efficiency in Aadhaar-linked services.
Sources: Financial Express, ABP Live Business Today