State launches drive to strengthen Aadhaar coverage for children aged 0–5

In a focused effort to improve Aadhaar enrollment among children aged 0–5 across the northeastern region, Commissioner of Nagaland, K.S. Anden Konyak, handed over 24 fingerprint scanners and 24 smartphones to the Department of Economics and Statistics on 23rd April 2025. The devices will support the expansion and efficiency of Aadhaar registration services statewide.

The handover ceremony was held at the Conference Hall of the Commissioner’s Office in Kohima, where officials and stakeholders gathered to mark the initiative.

Speaking at the event, Konyak emphasized the critical need to increase enrollment among young children and highlighted the importance of regular Aadhaar updates. “Each district is equipped with functional enrollment centres and trained operators to ensure timely registration and updates. Public awareness about updating Aadhaar every 10 years is essential,” he stated.

In Nagaland, the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) operates through the Office of the Commissioner, with support from banks, post offices, and other authorized agencies serving as enrollment and update centres.

To address gaps in coverage, a special Aadhaar enrollment campaign will soon be launched in Wokha, Peren, and Phek districts, which currently show low registration rates. The initiative is part of a broader state strategy to ensure that all residents, particularly children, have access to identity services essential for availing government schemes and benefits.

MT