UIDAI deactivates over 2 crore Aadhaar IDs in major database clean-up

UIDAI, using verified death data from national and state institutions, removed over 2 crore Aadhaar IDs linked to deceased citizens

PGurus Newsdesk

November 26, 2025

India undertakes historic Aadhaar database hygiene drive, removes 2 crore IDs

UIDAI blocks 2 crore+ IDs to prevent misuse

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has deactivated over two crore Aadhaar numbers linked to deceased individuals in one of the largest database hygiene drives in India’s national identity ecosystem. In a press release issued by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the government said the move was undertaken to maintain the accuracy of records and curb identity misuse.

UIDAI stated that verified data on deceased persons was sourced from the Registrar General of India (RGI), state governments, Union Territories, the Public Distribution System (PDS), and the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). Officials emphasised that Aadhaar numbers are never reassigned to other individuals, making posthumous deactivation critical in preventing fraud and safeguarding welfare delivery systems.

To streamline citizen reporting, UIDAI rolled out an online service titled “Reporting of death of a family member” on the myAadhaar portal earlier this year. The service is currently active in 25 states and Union Territories operating under the Civil Registration System (CRS), with integration of remaining regions expected soon.

Under the process, family members authenticate themselves on the portal before submitting the deceased individual’s Aadhaar number, Death Registration Number, and supporting details. The submissions undergo a verification protocol before UIDAI proceeds with deactivation. The authority has urged citizens to promptly report deaths after issuance of official death certificates, warning that delays could increase the risk of misuse of subsidies reliant on Aadhaar authentication.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.