The Aadhaar system is undergoing a significant overhaul in 2025. Key among the changes is the policy that each person may now only hold one valid Aadhaar number: if multiple numbers exist for the same individual, the earliest-issued with biometric data will be retained while the rest are cancelled.

The document-list for enrolment and updates has been revised: individuals aged 5 or older now must submit updated Proof of Identity (PoI), Proof of Address (PoA), Proof of Date of Birth (DoB) and Proof of Relationship (PoR) from the specified list. For example, for children under 5 now there are defined paths—either Head-of-Family based enrolment or institution-based certificates. The process of enrolment and update also incorporates cross-database verification with PAN, driving licence, MGNREGS records and electricity bills to reduce fake or duplicate Aadhaar numbers. 
Another major change: private-sector entities (in e-commerce, hospitality, health, fintech) are now formally authorised under the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016 to carry out Aadhaar authentication under the new “Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2025”.

These changes aim to strengthen identity integrity, reduce fraud and broaden the ecosystem of Aadhaar-based services. All Aadhaar-holders and service-providers should review the new rules carefully to ensure compliance and smooth transition.