Consider the following statements:

1. Aadhaar metadata cannot be stored for more than three months.

2. The state cannot enter into any contract with private corporations for sharing of Aadhaar data.

3. Aadhaar is mandatory for obtaining insurance products.

4. Aadhaar is mandatory for getting benefits funded out of the Consolidated Fund of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The Correct Answer is option 2. Key PointsAadhaar:

• 12-Digit Number:
  • Aadhaar is a 12-digit unique identification number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
• Voluntary Enrollment:
  • Any resident of India, regardless of age or gender, can voluntarily enroll for an Aadhaar number.
• Minimal Information Required:
  • During enrollment, individuals need to provide basic demographic and biometric information.
• Aadhaar Metadata:
  • The Supreme Court ruled that Aadhaar authentication data can’t be retained beyond 6 months, not 3 months.
  • Hence, Statement 1 is incorrect.
• State and Private Corporations:
  • The Supreme Court declared that the state cannot enter into contracts with private corporations for the sharing of Aadhaar data, as it infringes on the right to privacy.
  • Hence, Statement 2 is correct.
• Aadhaar for Insurance:
  • Aadhaar is not mandatory for purchasing insurance products. The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has clarified this.
  • Hence, Statement 3 is incorrect.
• Aadhaar for Government Benefits:
  • The Supreme Court ruled that welfare schemes funded from the Consolidated Fund of India require Aadhaar to ensure benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
  • Hence, Statement 4 is correct.
• The correct answer is 2) 2 and 4 only.