India's biometrics-backed unique ID system, Aadhaar, could be taking on another vital role in the country with its card becoming a mandatory document to fly.The government has tasked IT security firm Wipro with developing the infrastructure to make biometric authentication possible at all airports in the country.Wipro is expected to provide a report on the plans by early May, after which all airports will begin the process of a passenger's thumb being all the identification he or she requires to fly for domestic flights.According to a Times of India report, Aviation Minister Jayant Sinha said it was felt a joint system should be developed that can be replicated by all airports. Wipro has been asked to develop a concept note in this regard after consulting all stakeholders, including the JV airport operators.He added: “Once passengers reach the airport they are flying out of, flyers can just keep their thumb on the touch pad at the entry point. Once inside, a similar process can be repeated at other places like check-in. We want passengers to have as seamless and effortless a travel experience at airports as possible”.Earlier this year, Aadhaar was made mandatory for airport workers, with a new rule put in place based on a directive from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to ensure effective monitoring and as measure to beef up security at airports.
India to link Aadhaar to air travel
