Aadhaar has now emerged as one of the most crucial identity documents in India and is mandatory for opening a bank account as well as receiving a government subsidy. Developed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), Aadhaar boasts of both a Unique Identification Number (UID), a 12-digit number, and an Enrolment ID (EID), which comprises 28 digits vital for identity confirmation.
Nonetheless, a large number of individuals lose their Aadhaar cards or forget their UID/EID numbers. If you are in such a situation, do not panic. UIDAI has provided easy online and offline ways through which persons can easily access their lost Aadhaar UIDs or EIDs. This blog will take you through the step-by-step process.
What are UID and EID in Aadhaar?
The UID (Unique Identification Number) is 12 12-digit number given to each person upon successful enrolment as part of the Aadhaar scheme. It is your Aadhaar identity number that is permanent.
The EID (Enrolment ID) is a temporary 28-digit number issued at the Aadhaar enrolment. It is composed of a 14-digit enrolment number and a 14-digit date and time stamp. This is also a good number to be used to monitor the status of the Aadhaar application prior to the issuance of the UID.
In case you are unable to find either of these two numbers, you must get them back to be able to use Aadhaar services.
Is it Possible to get the Lost Aadhaar UID or EID back?
Yes, UIDAI is a secure and convenient method to locate your lost Aadhaar UID or EID using the official UIDAI website. One may recover the lost UID or EID after verifying the mobile number registered with them or the email ID used.
It does not require any financial investment, and one can complete it within a few minutes using a mobile phone or computer.
Prerequisites for Aadhaar UID/EID Retrieval
Make sure you have the following before you get on with the process of retrieving your Aadhaar number:
- A mobile phone, tablet or a PC connected to the internet
- Getting the registered mobile number or the email ID associated with your Aadhaar
- A reliable internet connection to pass OTP-based authentication
- The online retrieval process is not possible without using the registered mobile number or email. In this, we need offline recovery with Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
Step-by-Step Guide to Retrieve Lost Aadhaar UID or EID Online
- Go to the official UIDAI website https://uidai.gov.in/
- On the home page, select the tab that reads as My Aadhaar and then select the option “Retrieve lost/forgotten EID /UID”
- You will be redirected to a new page where you’ll need to select whether you want to retrieve your Aadhaar Number (UID) or your Enrolment ID (EID)
- Fill in your complete name as written in the Aadhaar database
- Enter the registered email ID or mobile number
- Fill in the captcha security code that appears on the screen
- Press the Send OTP button
- You will receive an OTP (One-Time Password) on your registered mobile number or email
- Fill in the OTP in the box provided and then click on OTP verification
- After it has been confirmed that the OTP is correct, your Aadhaar UID or EID will be delivered to your registered email address or mobile number immediately by SMS or email
What to Do If You Don’t Have a Registered Mobile or Email?
- In case your registered contact information is not known to you, then you should go to the nearest Aadhaar Enrolment Centre or Aadhaar Seva Kendra.
- Please have a valid identity proof of PAN card, voter ID, passport or any government-issued document.
- Request for Enrolment ID/Aadhaar Number retrieval at the helpdesk.
- Your identity might have to be verified through biometric authentication
- Once authenticated, Aadhaar UID/EID can be in a printed form or updated.
- You can also keep your correct mobile number/email up-to-date at the same time, so that in future you will find it easier to access Aadhaar services.
Importance of Keeping Aadhaar UID and EID Safe
UID Aadhaar number is commonly used in processes of KYC, subsidy applications, PAN linking, etc. On the same note, you will need an EID number in such situations as checking your Aadhaar status after you have enrolled or printing another Aadhaar.
The inability to have these numbers may give rise to inconveniences and delays in availing government schemes or financial services. It is, therefore, highly recommended that you keep your Aadhaar information in both physical and digital form as safely as possible.
One more thing that can be of assistance is the downloading of the mAadhaar App, which can provide access to your Aadhaar digitally. You can save more than one Aadhaar profile and verify using QR codes on it.
What to Do After Retrieving Your Aadhaar UID or EID
It is advisable after successful retrieval of your Aadhaar UID or EID, to:
- Obtain your e-Aadhaar card online at the UIDAI site
- If you suspect any incorrect information in your Aadhaar, update it accordingly.
- Connect your Aadhaar to PAN, bank accounts, LPG, etc.
- Make a backup of your UID or EID in a safe folder or email so as to use it later
- In case you want to reprint your Aadhaar, you can do so using the Online Service of UIDAI by choosing an option of Order Aadhaar PVC Card.
Is Retrieving Aadhaar UID or EID Safe?
Well, it is absolutely safe to access your Aadhaar UID or EID through the official portal of UIDAI. The procedure involves encryption and the use of OTP, whereby the owner will be the only individual to have the contact details once they are registered.
Ensure that you visit the official UIDAI site only to avoid falling victim to phishing or imposter sites claiming to offer Aadhaar services.
Conclusion
The recovery of a lost Aadhaar UID or EID may seem like a stressful experience; however, the online recovery process, available through a simplified procedure offered by the UIDAI, is quite convenient and straightforward, allowing for the safe recovery of the lost Aadhaar UID or EID within a short timeframe. To avail of any government scheme, prove your identity, and link your Aadhaar with PAN, it is essential to possess a UID or EID.
Do not lose your Aadhaar details. Ensure that your mobile number and email address are updated in your Aadhaar records to avoid any issues accessing UIDAI services. As Aadhaar becomes increasingly central to India’s digital identity, staying informed about retrieval and updating issues will save you a lot of time and help you prevent issues that could be easily avoided.
