The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MoSDE) on March 03, 2026, issued notification allowing Voluntary Aadhaar Authentication for Skill Development and Vocational Training Services.
The notification states that the use of the Aadhaar number helps individuals establish their identity easily and access government subsidies, benefits, and services in a seamless and transparent manner. It reduces the need for multiple identity documents and improves efficiency in service delivery. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in consultation with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), has permitted the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship to use Aadhaar authentication under the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2020.
Under this permission, the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship can use Aadhaar authentication on its digital platforms to promote good governance, improve ease of living, and enhance access to services. The authentication will mainly be used for verifying the identity of trainees during enrolment, admission, and certificate issuance, as well as for verifying trainers and examiners during the assessment process in the vocational education system.
The notification clarifies that Aadhaar authentication will be voluntary. The Ministry must obtain the consent of the Aadhaar holder before authentication and may use Yes/No authentication or e-KYC authentication methods. Additionally, individuals who refuse or are unable to use Aadhaar authentication cannot be denied services.
As an alternative, individuals can verify their identity using other valid documents such as a bank or post office passbook with photo, voter ID card, passport, or PAN card. The notification will come into effect from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
[Notification No. S.O. 1158(E)]
