DOT introduces 3 new methods to link mobile number with Aadhaar

In a bid to expedite linking Aadhaar card with the mobile number and verification process of mobile users, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) issued a comprehensive instruction, Communication Minister Manoj Sinha informed.

The DoT has introduced three new methods to link the registered mobile number with Aadhaar i.e. OTP (One Time Password) based, App based and the IVRS facility."

These new methods will help subscribers to get their mobile number linked to Aadhaar without visiting the stores of the telcos. For the ease of senior citizens and the people with disability and chronic illness, DoT has also recommended for the re-verification at subscribers' doorstep.

According to the new guidelines, the telecom operators should provide an online mechanism for people to request such service and based on availability schedule the visit and complete the process.

Announcing the new modes, the minister said: "The Aadhaar number system was designed to allow all residents to access to critical government services. It is the government's endeavor to improve convenience and reduce time and energy spent by consumers to accessing government information and services."

A representative of COAI stated, "The latest clarifications from the DoT are aligned with what the industry, and the subscribers need at this time. While it will take a little time to implement the directions, we are working closely with the government to improve and enhance the convenience of our consumers for undertaking Aadhaar based e-KYC linking of their mobile number."

Further, in keeping with privacy rules, the DoT has mandated that telecom service providers' agent should not have access to the subscribers' e-KYC data and only the name and address of the subscribers should be visible. Subscribers can verify or re-verify their mobile numbers from anywhere in the country irrespective of which service area their mobile connection belongs to.