New Notification on Aadhaar Requirement for “CM ARISE” Scheme in Tamil Nadu

On October 17, 2024, the Government of Tamil Nadu issued an important notification regarding the use of Aadhaar for beneficiaries of the “CM ARISE” scheme, which aims to improve the economic conditions of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the state. This notification outlines the requirements for individuals seeking benefits under the scheme, emphasizing the necessity of Aadhaar authentication.

Purpose of the Notification

The notification serves several key purposes:

1. Streamlining Service Delivery: By mandating Aadhaar as an identity document, the government aims to simplify the delivery of services, ensuring transparency and efficiency. This eliminates the need for multiple documents to prove identity, allowing beneficiaries to access their entitlements seamlessly.
2. Implementation of the CM ARISE Scheme: The Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department administers the CM ARISE scheme through the Tamil Nadu Adi Dravidar Housing Development Corporation. The scheme involves recurring expenditures funded by the state, necessitating a reliable method for beneficiary identification.

Key Requirements for Beneficiaries

1. Aadhaar Authentication: All individuals eligible for benefits under the CM ARISE scheme are required to furnish proof of Aadhaar possession or undergo Aadhaar authentication. This step is crucial to ensure that benefits reach the intended recipients directly.
2. Aadhaar Enrollment: Individuals who do not possess an Aadhaar number must apply for Aadhaar enrollment before registering for the scheme. They can visit any Aadhaar enrollment center, with a list available on the UIDAI website.
3. Aadhaar Enrollment Facilities: The implementing agency is mandated to provide Aadhaar enrollment facilities for beneficiaries who have yet to enroll. If no enrollment center exists in the respective area, the department will arrange for Aadhaar enrollment at convenient locations in coordination with existing UIDAI registrars.
4. Alternate Documentation: Until an Aadhaar number is assigned, beneficiaries can still access scheme benefits by presenting specific documents:
   • Aadhaar Enrollment Identification Slip (if applicable)
   • Any one of the following:
     • Bank or Post Office Passbook with Photo
     • PAN Card
     • Passport
     • Voter ID
     • Driving License
     • Any other document specified by the Department

These documents will be verified by designated officials to ensure authenticity.

Mechanisms for Failed Authentication

To address potential challenges in Aadhaar authentication, the notification outlines several remedial measures:

1. Alternative Authentication Methods: If biometric authentication fails due to poor fingerprint quality, the department will utilize Integrated Risk Information System scans or face authentication to facilitate the process.
2. One-Time Passwords: If biometric and alternative methods are unsuccessful, authentication through Aadhaar One-Time Password (OTP) or Time-Based One-Time Password will be offered where feasible.
3. Physical Aadhaar Letters: In cases where all digital authentication methods fail, beneficiaries can present their physical Aadhaar letters, which can be verified using a Quick Response (QR) code scanner.
4. Exception Handling: The department will implement exception handling mechanisms as outlined in a 2017 memorandum from the Direct Benefit Transfer Mission, ensuring that no beneficiary is deprived of their rightful benefits.