Pune Tops Maharashtra in Aadhaar Set Distribution, Ensures Access in Remote Areas
Pune, 16th July 2025: Pune district has emerged as the top performer in Aadhaar set distribution across Maharashtra, with successful deployment of all 203 sets received from the State Information and Technology Department, Mumbai. A total of 122 Aadhaar centers—including rural, municipal, and metropolitan areas—have been equipped under a time-bound program, ensuring easier access to Aadhaar services for residents.
The initiative was spearheaded by Deputy District Collector Pallavi Ghatge, who confirmed that Pune division led the state in Aadhaar kit distribution.
Aadhaar Kits Deployed Across 122 Centers
With rising populations and increased migration toward urban hubs like Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), the need for new Aadhaar centers had become critical. A district-wide program was initiated between May 9 and 23, 2025, targeting 122 vacant Aadhaar enrollment centers—comprising 65 in rural revenue boards, 7 in municipal councils, 22 in PMC, and 28 in PCMC.
To ensure transparency and inclusivity, applicants were required to meet criteria such as operating an Aaple Sarkar Seva Kendra, possessing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for government premises, and having a qualified Aadhaar supervisor. Eligible applicants were selected via a public lottery on June 12, 2025, at the District Collector’s Office, with all candidates present.
Outdated Kits Replaced with New Systems
Many earlier Aadhaar kits had become outdated, prompting the state government to issue guidelines for their replacement. The newly received sets were handed over to selected operators at the Wadki grain warehouse in the presence of Deputy Collector Pallavi Ghatge.
Voices from the Ground
Those receiving the new Aadhaar kits expressed appreciation for the open and fair process:
Rupali Prashant Kumawat, ‘F’ Ward Office, PCMC, said, “Justice was done to needy people like us by implementing the process through open advertisements and a transparent lottery system. There was no room for doubt or favoritism.”
Bhushan Patil, ‘D’ Area Office, PCMC, added, “Thanks to timely newspaper notices and updates on the Collector Office website, the entire distribution process remained active and accessible. I’m satisfied with how it was handled.”
Sandeep Kamble, from Velhe’s Ambavane Mandal, emphasized the impact on remote villages: “Earlier, citizens had to travel 40-50 km for Aadhaar services. Now, areas like Bara Maval, Velhe, Kanand Pasli, and Panshet will benefit—especially the elderly, women, and schoolchildren.”
