AIFF introduces mandatory Aadhaar-linked DigiLocker verification for all Indian players registered in the Centralised Registration System (CRS)

Kolkata, June 30: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has introduced a new rule for Indian players by making DigiLocker mandatory. DigiLocker is a digital document storage and verification platform developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology under the Digital India programme. It will be used to verify the identity of Indian players and store certificates issued for participation in AIFF-recognised competitions, making player records more secure and easier to authenticate.

The AIFF has made DigiLocker verification mandatory for all Indian players registered in the Centralised Registration System (CRS). While the existing CRS registration and approval process will continue, players must now also complete Aadhaar-linked DigiLocker verification before becoming eligible to participate in AIFF-organised competitions. The move aims to strengthen the authenticity and security of players.

The introduction of DigiLocker verification is expected to make the player registration process more secure and transparent by strengthening identity verification and reducing the chances of duplicate or fraudulent registrations. It will also allow players to securely access their AIFF participation certificates digitally, while helping the federation maintain more authentic and reliable player records.

While the move is expected to improve the security and transparency of player registration, it may also create challenges for some players. Those without an Aadhaar-linked DigiLocker account or easy access to digital services could face delays in completing the verification process, affecting their eligibility to participate in AIFF-organised competitions. Clubs and Member Associations may also have to take on additional administrative responsibilities to ensure all players complete the new requirement.

The new rule is a step towards making player registration more organised and reliable. If carried out smoothly, it can benefit both players and the AIFF. At the same time, it will be important to ensure that every player and club can complete the process easily so that no one misses out on playing because of technical or registration issues.