Notification on Aadhaar Authentication for Beneficiaries of Tamil Nadu Welfare Schemes

The Government of Tamil Nadu on October 17, 2024 has issued a significant notification from the Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department regarding the mandatory use of Aadhaar authentication for beneficiaries of the “Tholkudi,” “CM ARISE,” and “Nannilam Magalir Nila Udamai Thittam” schemes.

This decision aligns with the provisions of Section 7 of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016.

Purpose of the Notification

The primary goals of this notification are to:

1. Streamline Service Delivery: Utilizing Aadhaar numbers simplifies the process of delivering services and benefits, making it more transparent and efficient. It eliminates the need for multiple identity documents, allowing beneficiaries to access their entitlements more conveniently.
2. Improve Living Standards: The schemes aim to enhance the economic and social conditions of Scheduled Tribes and other marginalized groups in Tamil Nadu, thereby improving their overall quality of life.

Key Provisions of the Notification

1. Aadhaar Requirement: Individuals eligible for benefits under the specified schemes must provide proof of Aadhaar possession or undergo Aadhaar authentication.
2. Enrollment for Aadhaar: Those without an Aadhaar number must apply for Aadhaar enrollment before registering for the schemes. A list of enrollment centers can be found on the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) website.
3. Enrollment Facilities: The implementing agency is mandated to provide Aadhaar enrollment facilities for beneficiaries who have not yet enrolled. In cases where no centers are available, arrangements will be made for enrollment at convenient locations.
4. Alternate Documentation: Beneficiaries without Aadhaar can still receive benefits by providing:
   • Aadhaar Enrollment Identification Slip (if applicable)
   • One of the following identity documents:
     • Bank or Post Office Passbook with Photo
     • PAN Card
     • Passport
     • Voter ID
     • Driving License
     • Any other document specified by the Department
5. Public Awareness Campaign: The Department will conduct awareness campaigns to ensure beneficiaries understand the new requirements and how to comply with them.

Remedial Mechanisms for Authentication Issues

The notification also addresses potential challenges with Aadhaar authentication, outlining several remedial measures:

1. Alternative Authentication Methods: If biometric authentication fails due to poor quality, alternative methods such as Integrated Risk Information System scans or face authentication will be employed.
2. One-Time Passwords (OTPs): If biometric and alternative methods fail, beneficiaries may be authenticated using Aadhaar OTPs or Time-Based OTPs, where feasible.
3. Physical Aadhaar Letters: In cases where digital authentication methods are unavailable, benefits may be provided based on the physical Aadhaar letter, which can be verified using a Quick Response (QR) code scanner.
4. Exception Handling Mechanism: To ensure no beneficiary is deprived of benefits, the Department will implement the exception handling mechanisms outlined in a 2017 memorandum from the Direct Benefit Transfer Mission.

Effective Date

The notification is effective from October 17, 2024