Aadhaar gets 5 new updates: Face authentication, new portal and more by UIDAI

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced five new initiatives aimed at making Aadhaar-related services more convenient, strengthening security and supporting digital governance.

From face authentication for the Electronic Public Distribution System (ePDS) to a revamped UIDAI website, here are the five key initiatives announced by UIDAI.

1. Face authentication for ePDS

UIDAI, the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) and the National Informatics Centre (NIC) launched Face Authentication for the Electronic Public Distribution System.

The consent-based and contactless authentication option gives beneficiaries an additional way to authenticate themselves, particularly when fingerprint authentication may be difficult.

States and Union Territories can integrate Face Authentication into their ePDS ecosystems.

2. SWIK Portal 2.0

UIDAI also launched SWIK Portal 2.0, which is designed to streamline the process of seeking approval for Aadhaar authentication under the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance framework.

Eligible non-Government entities can submit proposals for permissible use cases directly through the portal to the concerned Ministry or Department.

3. Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA (LITE) Framework

The new Sub-AUA/Sub-KUA (LITE) Framework is intended to facilitate wider adoption of Aadhaar authentication by government and eligible other-than-government entities with low-volume requirements.

Eligible entities can leverage the authentication infrastructure of an existing AUA/KUA instead of establishing their own authentication infrastructure.

According to UIDAI, this is intended to enable simpler and faster onboarding while continuing to follow its security, privacy and regulatory requirements.

4. New Token Management System

UIDAI also unveiled a new Token Management System.

The system is intended to make it easier for residents to visit UIDAI state and regional offices for services wherever applicable.

5. Revamped UIDAI website

Another major announcement was the launch of the revamped UIDAI website, unveiled by Minister of State Jitin Prasada.

UIDAI said residents generally visit the website for four fundamental reasons: to understand Aadhaar, access a service, find a document or seek assistance.

The redesigned website brings these journeys into a clearer structure and has been aligned with Aadhaar brand guidelines.

• Screen-reader compatibility

• Adjustable font sizes

• Improved colour contrast

• Keyboard navigation

• Other accessibility enhancements

With BHASHINI integration, the website currently supports 13 languages, including English and Hindi. UIDAI said it plans to make the website available in 23 languages in the near future.

The revamped website also introduces the UIDAI Career Portal, allowing online applications for deputation opportunities.

What UIDAI said about Aadhaar

Minister of State Jitin Prasada described Aadhaar as “a very critical component for India’s growth story” and said it has been instrumental in service delivery, financial inclusion and ensuring that government benefits reach the right people.

UIDAI CEO Saurabh Vijay said residents remain at the centre of UIDAI’s actions and that the new launches are aligned with its resident-centric approach.

Vivek C Verma, Deputy Director General, UIDAI, said the organisation is responding to changing needs, including emerging technologies, new forms of service delivery, privacy, security and resident convenience.

The five initiatives announced at Aadhaar Samvaad are therefore focused on expanding authentication options, improving access to UIDAI services, supporting eligible entities using Aadhaar authentication and making the digital experience more accessible for residents.