Aadhaar authentication made mandatory for the PM CARES for Children scholarship, with safeguards

17 October 2026

The Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has notified that beneficiaries of the Special Scholarship Scheme under PM CARES for Children must complete Aadhaar authentication or furnish proof of possession of an Aadhaar number.
The scheme supports continuing education from Class 1 to Class 12.
The notification states that no child will be denied the benefit for failing Aadhaar authentication or for not holding an Aadhaar number.
In such cases the child's identity and the relationship with a parent or legal guardian are verified through specified documents.
For beneficiaries below 18, an enrolment acknowledgement carrying the Enrolment ID and a proof of age such as a birth certificate, Indian passport or a Class 10 or Class 12 certificate may be used.
For those aged 18 and above without Aadhaar, a Voter ID card issued by the Election Commission, a driving licence, an Indian passport or a ration card may be accepted.
Where Aadhaar authentication fails, biometric or one-time password verification may be used wherever feasible.