The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) honored Meghalaya with two national awards for its exemplary performance in Aadhaar services. The award was conferred during Aadhaar Samvaad 2025 held at Bharat Mandapam Convention Centre, New Delhi. These accolades recognize Meghalaya’s focused efforts to make Aadhaar services inclusive, secure, and reliable for all age groups.
Key Highlights
Event: Aadhaar Samvaad 2025
Awards Received by Meghalaya:
- Best Performing State in Carrying Out Mandatory Biometric Updates (MBUs) of Children
- Best Performing State in Verification of Adult Aadhaar Enrolment
Significance of Meghalaya’s Achievement
- Enhanced Digital Inclusion: Demonstrates effective outreach for updating children’s biometrics and verifying adult enrolments.
- Strengthened Service Delivery: Ensures accuracy and security of the UID system at the state level.
- Model for Other States: Meghalaya’s best practices can guide fellow states in streamlining Aadhaar processes and boosting public trust.
About Aadhaar
What is Aadhaar?
A 12‑digit unique identity number issued to residents of India, based on biometric (fingerprints, iris scans) and demographic data.
Issuing Authority:
UIDAI, a statutory body under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, established in January 2016 by the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and other Subsidies, benefits and services) Act, 2016.
Slogan: “Mera Aadhaar, Meri Pehchaan”
Scale & Reach:
- World’s largest biometric ID system.
- As of May 2023, over 99.9% of India’s adult population had an Aadhaar number.
- Described by World Bank Chief Economist Paul Romer as “the most sophisticated ID programme in the world.”
Legal Status:
- Serves as proof of residence, not proof of citizenship.
- Not valid as an identification document for travel to Nepal or Bhutan.