Deputy Commissioner Kiphire, Temsuwati Longkumer, NCS, has directed all Government Departments, offices, institutions, banks and implementing agencies within Kiphire District through a circular, to recognise and accept Aadhaar Verifiable Credentials presented through the Aadhaar mobile application as valid proof of identity.

The circular, issued in pursuance of the Home Department, Government of Nagaland, and guidelines of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), stated that the newly introduced Aadhaar App, available on both Android and iOS platforms, enables Aadhaar holders to digitally display, share and verify their identity credentials without necessarily disclosing or physically sharing their 12-digit Aadhaar number.

The Deputy Commissioner clarified that Aadhaar Verifiable Credentials shared or verified through the Aadhaar App shall be treated as a legally valid form of identity proof, in addition to other recognised Aadhaar documents such as Aadhaar Letter, e-Aadhaar, Aadhaar Card and m-Aadhaar.

The circular directed all concerned authorities to ensure uniform acceptance of digital Aadhaar credentials and cautioned that no eligible applicant or beneficiary should be denied access to government services or benefits merely for presenting digital Aadhaar credentials instead of a physical Aadhaar card, subject to applicable verification requirements.

Heads of Offices and institutional authorities have also been directed to sensitise their subordinate officials and frontline staff about the validity and acceptance of digital Aadhaar credentials. The Lead District Manager, Kiphire, has been asked to circulate the instructions among all banking institutions and branches operating in the district.

Further, all concerned departments and agencies have been instructed to facilitate citizens in using digital Aadhaar credentials and avoid unnecessary procedural inconvenience or repeated demands for alternative documentation.

The circular emphasised strict and uniform compliance by all departments and institutions within their respective jurisdictions, and shall come into force with immediate effect.

(IA, Kiphire)