Bengal gears up for UID project

IT Minister Debes Das said the Unique ID Authority has identified two places in the state for implementation of the pilot project.

Sources,however,said executing the project in West Bengal may face some problems mainly because of the existence of a large number of fake ration cards and complicated demographic condition of the districts. The population staying close to the border with Bangladesh is another major hurdle,they said.

Though it is a tough job,it is possible to implement it with the use of sophisticated technology,” Das said.

“The company that was awarded the job nationwide is yet to discuss the implementation of the project. I have information they have selected two places in West Bengal to work on their model projects on UID,” said Das. The names of the two areas are being withheld to ensure smooth implementation of the project,it was learnt.

The proposed identity cards under the project will be smart cards carrying detailed information on individuals,including their finger biometrics and photographs. A unique National Identity Number will be given to everyone below 18 years of age.