Ladakh Gets Region-Specific Aadhaar Cards
Until now, Aadhaar identification for residents of Ladakh remained linked with Jammu and Kashmir, of which the high-altitude Himalayan region was a part before it was carved out as a separate Union Territory on 5 August 2019
SRINAGAR: The people of Ladakh will now have region-specific Aadhaar cards, a significant administrative development that reflects the Union Territory’s distinct identity.
Until now, Aadhaar identification for residents of Ladakh remained linked with Jammu and Kashmir, of which the high-altitude Himalayan region was a part before it was carved out as a separate Union Territory on 5 August 2019.
The latest move formally delinks Ladakh’s Aadhaar records from J&K, addressing a long-pending concern of local residents.
Authorities in Leh have described the decision as a historic move, stating that it fulfils a long-standing demand of the people of Ladakh. The change is being viewed as an important step towards administrative clarity and recognition of Ladakh’s unique status, while also simplifying identity-related processes for residents across the region.
The updation of Aadhaar records has been carried out on the basis of PIN codes specific to Ladakh. These PIN codes were verified in coordination with the Department of Posts and subsequently shared with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), ensuring accuracy and official validation of the updated data.
This development has brought considerable relief to the people of Ladakh, as residents are no longer required to visit Aadhaar centres individually to update their records, an official spokesperson said in Leh.
"They can now conveniently download their updated e-Aadhaar directly from the official UIDAI portal. Those who wish to obtain a PVC Aadhaar card may also place an online order by paying a nominal fee, making the entire process simpler, faster, and more accessible," he added.