What is mAadhaar?

6 mins read
by Angel One
Explore the mAadhaar app, a groundbreaking initiative by UIDAI, designed for Aadhaar card users. This application streamlines your access to Aadhaar details while providing robust security for your sensitive information.

In India, the Aadhaar card has become a crucial part of daily life. Whether it’s for linking with bank accounts, mobile numbers, PAN, UAN, or accessing various government subsidies, Aadhaar stands central. But, imagine the hassle of carrying around your physical Aadhaar card – the risk of loss is always there. Enter mAadhaar, an innovative solution by UIDAI. This app transforms your smartphone, be it Android or iOS, into a digital wallet carrying your Aadhaar. Now, your Aadhaar travels with you, safe and sound in your pocket.

What is mAadhaar App? 

The mAadhaar app, created by UIDAI, provides a digital platform for Aadhaar card holders. This app allows users to keep their demographic details and photograph right on their smartphones. You can add up to five Aadhaar profiles. What makes it secure? A password protects your data, ensuring only you can access it. This innovative solution eliminates the worry of losing or damaging your physical Aadhaar card. Whether you’re at an airport or a train station, verifying your identity is now at your fingertips with mAadhaar.

Also Read More About How to Apply for Aadhaar Card?

Features of the mAadhaar App

The mAadhaar app is loaded with features which enhances its usability in various scenarios:

  • Biometric Locking/Unlocking: A standout feature for security-conscious users. It allows you to lock your biometrics stored in the UIDAI’s database. Once locked, the biometrics cannot be used for authentications, thus preventing potential misuse.
  • TOTP Generation: The Time-based One-Time Password (TOTP) is a dynamic code generated by the app, used in place of the traditional SMS-based OTP. This feature is especially useful when you don’t have network coverage.
  • QR Code and eKYC Data Sharing: Securely share your eKYC data with service providers through a digitally signed QR code. This method eliminates the risk of document forgery and ensures data privacy.
  • Create and Manage Multiple Profiles: Manage Aadhaar details of your family members (up to five members) in one app. This feature is particularly handy for heads of families who manage documentation for all family members. 
  • Paperless Offline e-KYC: In a move towards a more digital India, the mAadhaar app now boasts a “Paperless Offline e-KYC” feature. This innovation allows users to generate a secure, shareable document for offline verification. It’s a leap towards convenience, keeping your data safe and your mind at ease.
  • Aadhaar Services on SMS: Even without internet connectivity, you can access various Aadhaar services via SMS, ensuring the app’s functionality in remote areas.
  • Updating Profile Data: The app allows for an easy update of your demographic details linked to Aadhaar, ensuring your information is always current.

Steps to Install mAadhaar on Your Mobile Phone

Installing the mAadhaar app is a straightforward process:

  1. Locate the App: Open Google Play Store or Apple App Store on your smartphone and search for ‘mAadhaar’. Ensure you’re downloading the official app by UIDAI.
  2. Download and Install: Select the app from the search results and click on the ‘Install’ button. The app will automatically download and install on your phone.
  3. Open and Set Permissions: Once installed, open the app. You will be prompted to grant certain permissions, such as access to your phone’s SMS to auto-fill OTPs for a smoother experience.
  4. Enter Aadhaar Number: After granting necessary permissions, the app will ask you to enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or scan the QR code on your Aadhaar card.
  5. Verify with OTP: An OTP will be sent to your registered mobile number for verification. Enter this OTP in the app to proceed.
  6. Set a Password: After OTP verification, you’ll be asked to set a four-digit password. This password is crucial for accessing the app in the future, ensuring that your Aadhaar data is secure.
  7. Complete Profile Setup: Fill in your personal details as mentioned in your Aadhaar card to complete the setup of your profile.

Adding Your Profile in the mAadhaar App

Adding your profile to the mAadhaar app is a seamless process, ensuring that your Aadhaar information is always within your reach. Here’s how you can add your profile:

  1. Open the App: First, launch the mAadhaar app on your smartphone. Enter the password you created during the initial setup to access the app.
  2. Navigate to Profile Section: On the home screen, you will find an option to add a profile. Tap on this to proceed.
  3. Enter Aadhaar Number or Scan QR: You have two choices here – manually enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number or use the scan feature to read the QR code from your Aadhaar card.
  4. Verify with OTP: Once your Aadhaar number is entered, the app will send an OTP to your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP in the app to authenticate your identity.
  5. Complete Profile Setup: After successful OTP verification, your Aadhaar details will be downloaded onto the app. You can now view your demographic information as it appears on your Aadhaar card.

Viewing and Managing Your Profile

Your mAadhaar profile is a digital mirror of your Aadhaar card, providing easy access to your personal details. To view and manage your profile:

  1. Access Your Profile: Open the mAadhaar app and enter your password. Select your profile from the main screen.
  2. View Aadhaar Details: Upon selecting your profile, you can view all your Aadhaar details, including your name, date of birth, gender, address, and photograph.
  3. Update Profile Details: If you need to update any details on your Aadhaar, such as your address, the mAadhaar app directs you to the online Aadhaar update portal.
  4. Manage Multiple Profiles: If you have added more than one profile (for family members), you can switch between these profiles within the app, managing each one separately.

Also Read More About How to Check Aadhaar Card Status?

Resetting the Password in mAadhaar App

Forgetting passwords is common, and the mAadhaar app provides an easy way to reset it:

  1. Open App Settings: Launch the app and go to the settings menu, usually represented by three dots or lines on the app’s main screen.
  2. Select ‘Reset Password’: In the settings menu, find and select the ‘Reset Password’ option.
  3. Authenticate: You’ll be prompted to enter your current password, followed by a new password. This step ensures that only you can reset your password.
  4. Set New Password: Enter the new password that you wish to set. It’s recommended to choose a strong, memorable password.
  5. Confirmation: After setting the new password, the app will confirm the change. You can now use this new password to access your mAadhaar profile.

Conclusion

The mAadhaar app is a significant stride towards digitising and securing our identity management. With its robust features and user-friendly interface, it simplifies the way we interact with our Aadhaar details, making our lives more convenient and secure. Remember, keeping your Aadhaar details up-to-date and secure is crucial, and the mAadhaar app download is here to help you with just that.

FAQs

Is there any difference between mAadhaar on iOS and Android?

Both iOS and Android users enjoy the same services with the mAadhaar app. The app’s functionality and user experience remain consistent across both platforms​

Do I need a registered mobile number to use mAadhaar services?

While anyone in India with a smartphone can install and use the mAadhaar app, a registered mobile number is crucial for creating your profile in mAadhaar and using it as a digital identity. This number receives the OTP required for profile creation​.

​Does my mAadhaar profile become inactive if I switch phones?

Yes, your mAadhaar profile becomes inactive when you switch to a new phone. However, you can reactivate it by installing the mAadhaar app on your new device​.

What are the features and benefits of the mAadhaar app?

The mAadhaar app offers various features like viewing Aadhaar in offline mode, updating address, managing Aadhaar for family members, sharing eKYC or QR code, securing Aadhaar data, generating VID, using Aadhaar SMS services in offline mode, tracking request status, booking appointments at Aadhaar Seva Kendra, and many more​.

Where can I use the mAadhaar app?

The mAadhaar app can be used anywhere in India. It’s accepted as valid ID proof and enables users to share their eKYC or QR code with service providers for Aadhaar verification before availing of various services​.