10 important documents you must never lose

In India, having certain identification documents is not only essential but also mandatory for various purposes, be it accessing government services or to conduct any financial transactions. These documents serve as proof of your identity, address, citizenship, and your qualifications too. And as a way to integrate these different services under one roof, one can apply for these documents through government portals and Janseva kendras, at times all at once. Here we list the ten important identification documents every Indian should have. 

Aadhaar card

The Aadhaar card is a unique identification document issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). It contains a 12-digit unique identification number, your biometric details, and the demographic information of the individual. Today, Aadhaar is very important for availing different policies or even simple registrations. One must have their Aadhaar at hand when wanting to avail any government subsidies, opening bank accounts, registering on government portals and accessing other services.

Birth certificate

A birth certificate is issued at birth and must be carried and kept safe till death. It is an official document issued by the municipal authority that records the birth of a child. The birth certificate serves as proof of date and place of birth, which is essential for obtaining other documents like Aadhaar card, passport, and even school admission.

PAN card

The Permanent Account Number (PAN) card is issued by the Income Tax Department and is very important for conducting financial transactions such as filing income tax returns, opening bank accounts, investing in securities, and purchasing high-value assets. It also serves as proof of identity and occasionally if you do not have your Aadhaar card at hand, the PAN card can serve as the primary proof of identity.

Voter ID

The Voter ID card, also known as the Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC), is issued by the Election Commission of India. It enables individuals to exercise their right to vote in elections, which in turn makes them participate in the democratic process but a person needs to have his/her name in the voting list along with voter Id to cast vote. Additionally, it serves as a valid proof of identity and address.

Driving License

A driving license is issued by the Regional Transport Office (RTO) and is mandatory for individuals to drive a motor vehicle legally on Indian roads and it also tells the class of vehicle one is eligible to drive. It serves as proof of identity and also validates the holder's ability to drive a vehicle. It is important to note that most people get their driving licence only post 18 and have to renew it from time to time.

Ration card

The ration card is an official document issued by the state government that allows the holder to purchase subsidised food grains and other essential items from fair price shops. There are different types of Rations cards which provide different levels of subsidies. For example, the white card which is issued to the family which comes below the poverty line. It also serves as proof of identity and residence for availing various government schemes and benefits.

Passport

A passport is an essential travel document issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India to Indian citizens. It serves as proof of Indian citizenship and identity while travelling abroad. Additionally, it makes international travel possible by serving as a supporting document for visas issued by different countries.

Educational certificates

Educational certificates, including school leaving certificates, mark sheets, and degree certificates, are required for proving one's educational qualifications. These documents are required for employment, higher education, and various other purposes such as applying for government jobs and scholarships. It is absolutely necessary to keep your educational certificates preserved for future reference.

Marriage certificate

A marriage certificate is issued by the Registrar of Marriages and serves as legal proof of marriage. It is necessary for claiming various social security benefits, obtaining a visa for the spouse, and updating marital status in other official documents.

Bank Passbooks

Bank passbooks or statements are issued by banks to their account holders and provide a record of transactions, account balance, and other financial details. They are important for managing finances, applying for loans, and other banking services. It also serves as an identification document and is required in applying for other identification documents such as passports.