Every country   across the world uses a unique identity system for every citizen that holds all the details pertaining to his/her identity. The Government of India too has implemented such a system in year 2009 and has given it the name ''Aadhaar''. The Aadhaar number, also referred to as UID is a unique 12 digit number issued by Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) that serves as an identity card and can be linked to various services like PAN, Pension Schemes, Savings bank accounts and UAN.  Facts about Aadhaar Card The Aadhaar Card has a unique number that can be used as a proof of identity and as a proof of address in India.   Any person, who is a resident of India, can enroll for Aadhaar Card, if he/she satisfies the basic verification process that is laid down by UIDAI. The enrollment for Aadhaar is free and has to be done voluntarily.  Even kids who are as young as a year can apply for Aadhaar Card.  If you are wondering as to ''Where all can I use my Aadhaar card?'', it is important you know the benefits provided by the same.  Benefits of Aadhaar Card Let us have a look at the benefits of Aadhaar card and as to why is Aadhaar card important to every citizen of India.   Direct Benefit Transfer for LPG Subsidy: The unique Aadhaar number can be used to receive the amount of LPG subsidy directly to their bank account. The scheme, which is named as PAHAL can be utilized by visiting your area distributor of LPG and by linking one’s Aadhaar number to the 17 digit LPG consumer number.  The Jan Dhan Yojana: Citizens of India can enroll for the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) by just using their Aadhaar card. The benefits that are offered by PMJDY are a RuPay Card, savings account with zero balance, accident and life insurance to name a few.  Passport: Individuals can get their passport in just 10 days and as per a new rule, Aadhaar card is now mandatory if you need a passport.  DigiLocker: DigiLocker, a new digital locker system launched by the Indian Government, enables storage of personal documents of an individual on the government server. One needs to submit their 12 digit Aadhaar number during the sign up process for the same.  Link Voter Card: As per the government rule, every individual who has an Aadhaar number needs to link it to their voter IDs. This rule was made mandatory by the government to eliminate any fake voters. So, if you want to utilize your right to vote, it is mandatory that you have an Aadhaar Card.  Pension Scheme: The pensioners from specific states now have to link their Aadhaar number to their respective departments to receive their pension month on month. This move has been initiated to keep a curb on the fraudulent and fake beneficiaries who were requesting pension.    Provident Fund: Individuals need to link their Aadhaar number with the employee provident fund organization (EPFO) to receive their provident fund money.   Open a New Bank Account: The Aadhaar letter that is provided by the UIDAI is now accepted by every bank as a document to open a new bank account. This serves as an address and an identity proof. So, individuals now need not provide a bunch of documents to open a bank account; they can just walk in with their Aadhaar letter or card and open a savings bank account.  Digital Life Certificate: The Department of Electronics and IT has launched an initiative where one can obtain a digital life certificate by linking their Aadhaar Number. The scheme that was named as “Jeevan Praman for Pensioners” puts an end to the process that asks the pensioner to be present physically at the Pension Disbursing Agency to get their pension.  SEBI: Aadhaar card is also accepted by Securities and Exchange board of India as a proof of address and proof of identity.  How to apply for an Aadhaar card online Citizens of India can apply fro Aadhaar Card online by visiting a nearby Aadhaar centre. Let us have a look at the steps involved. -  Book your appointment at the nearest Aadhaar centre. This is done online via the UIDAI website where all the details are entered about the applicant.  Once the appointment gets booked, visit the centre with the required documents. Submit the biometric data as finger prints and recording of iris. Information provided is verified by the authorities. Once verified, applicant is informed via SMS or email about the status. Once the application is approved, a unique Aadhaar number is issued How long does it take to get an Aadhaar card?  The waiting time to receive an Aadhaar card can be anywhere between 3-5 weeks, as the data provided by the applicant undergoes various stages of verification. The Aadhaar number is provided to the applicant only after the completion of LRUR process. Considering the fact that the acceptance of Aadhaar card is increasing, it is now a must for every citizen of India to get enrolled for the same. It is also believed that Aadhaar card will be given more importance in government schemes that would soon be launched.