The Ministry of Finance has officially notified that Aadhaar-based authentication for users of the Public Finance Management System (PFMS) Mobile Application will now be available on a voluntary basis, enabling beneficiaries, vendors, and government employees to securely access their payment and scheme information.
The notification, issued under G.S.R. 859(E) by the Department of Expenditure, highlights that Aadhaar authentication helps streamline identity verification, reduce paperwork, improve transparency, and support efficient delivery of government subsidies and services.
Aadhaar Authentication Allowed After UIDAI, MeitY Approval
According to the Gazette notification, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), in consultation with the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), permitted the PFMS Division (Office of the Controller General of Accounts) to perform Aadhaar authentication under the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance Rules, 2020.
This approval allows PFMS to use Yes/No authentication and eKYC services to establish the identity of users accessing scheme and payment-related information on the PFMS mobile platform.
Authentication Strictly Voluntary; No Service Denial
The Finance Ministry clarified that Aadhaar authentication for PFMS Mobile App is entirely voluntary and not mandatory for accessing services.
Under Rule 3(2) of the Good Governance Rules, PFMS must:
- Obtain explicit consent of Aadhaar holders before authentication.
- Inform users about alternative identification options.
- Ensure no service is denied to those who choose not to use Aadhaar.
As an alternative, users may verify their identity by providing their bank account number and validating an OTP sent to their registered mobile number, ensuring seamless access without Aadhaar.
Effective Immediately
The notification comes into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette, paving the way for a more streamlined, secure, and choice-based authentication framework for PFMS users across India.
Official copy of the notification has been attached
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