3)Aadhar poses several privacy concerns, which need to be allayed, so that it’s benefits can be harnessed in the best possible way. Analyse. (250 words)

Topic –Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.

3)Aadhar poses several privacy concerns, which need to be allayed, so that it’s benefits can be harnessed in the best possible way. Analyse. (250 words)

Indian Express

Why this question

Recently Bill Gates made a public statement saying that Aadhar does not pose any privacy concerns. However, Aadhar raises several issues related to privacy of an individual. The act of denying the problem is akin to an ostrich burying its head in the sand. Although Aadhar offers immense opportunities for improving public service delivery and governance, it is vital to allay the critical concerns attached with it. The question is related to GS-2 syllabus under the following heading-

Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications,

models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures.

Key demand of the question

The question wants us to highlight the benefits associated with the Aadhar and bring out the privacy concerns surrounding it.

Directive word

Analyse- we have to identify the key aspects of the question- privacy concerns with Aadhar and benefits associated with it, and then discuss these aspects in detail. We have to bring out reasons in support of the statement that, Aadhar poses several privacy concerns.  Also we have to bring out the benefits of Aadhar.

Structure of the answer

Introduction- briefly discuss the importance of privacy and data protection in modern world.

Body-

• Discuss in points, what are the privacy concerns posed by Aadhar- e.g security of data, sharing of data with third parties, large discretionary powers of UIDAI and least accountability, leakage of information, surveillance etc.

• Briefly mention the benefits of Aadhar- efficient PDS, better targeting for social sector schemes, antiterrorism, detection economic frauds and offenders etc.

Conclusion- mention the importance and scope of Aadhar in better governance and more efficient service delivery. Also mention the need to protect and guard personal data collected under Aadhar act. You can also mention need for accountability of UIDAI and creation of an overseeing body for UIDAI which would be responsible for checking any irregularities and misconceived regulations.