Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) | UPSC CSE

Why in News: After waiving all charges for Mandatory Biometric Update (MBU) in Aadhaar for children, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) will use behavioural insights to enhance adoption of MBU.

Background and Purpose: Under Aadhaar enrolment rules, children below the age of five receive an Aadhaar based on demographic data and a photograph only, as their fingerprints and iris scans are not captured due to immature biometrics. When the child turns five years old, biometric data—fingerprints, iris, and photo—must be mandatorily updated; this is termed MBU-1. Another update is required at age 15, known as MBU-2.

Earlier Rule: The first and second MBUs, if carried out between the ages of 5–7 years and 15–17 years respectively, were already free. Beyond these age windows, a fee of ₹125 per MBU was charged.

New Provision: With this waiver, MBU is now free for all children aged 5–17 years, irrespective of when it is performed within that age range.

What is Aadhaar Biometric? Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued to residents of India by UIDAI, serving as proof of identity and address. Aadhaar biometrics include unique physical and behavioural identifiers used for authentication.

Types of Aadhaar Biometrics:

1. Fingerprint Data: Scans of all ten fingers are captured, recording unique ridge and swirl patterns.
2. Iris Scan Data: High-resolution images of both irises (coloured part of the eyes) are taken, ensuring high accuracy even when fingerprints are unclear due to age, manual work, or medical reasons.

Schedule for Mandatory Biometric Updates:

• At age 5: First biometric recording (photo, fingerprints, and iris) and de-duplication process are carried out; Aadhaar number remains the same.
• At age 15: Second biometric update with the same parameters is required to ensure data accuracy.

Blue Aadhaar (Baal Aadhaar): UIDAI issues a Blue Aadhaar Card, also called Baal Aadhaar, for children below 5 years. It carries no biometric data and serves as a unique identity proof for young children until their first MBU at age five.

Source: PIB

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