LUCKNOW, May 16 -- The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) on Friday stressed privacy-focused digital identity verification during the visit of CEO Vivek Chandra Verma to the regional office here. The visit focused on expanding secure Aadhaar authentication services while improving citizen-centric grievance redressal mechanisms, according to a UIDAI press release. During the programme, Verma distributed Offline Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE) certificates to representatives of seven companies authorised to use UIDAI's offline Aadhaar verification services. Officials said the system allows institutions to verify identities securely without requiring users to share their Aadhaar number, reducing the risk of personal data misuse. Addressing officials and company representatives, Verma said UIDAI's offline verification mechanism provides seamless and privacy-friendly identity authentication. He added that the Aadhaar ecosystem is being strengthened on the principle of "data minimisation," ensuring users share only limited and necessary information while availing services. Verma also interacted with residents who had visited the regional office for Aadhaar-related grievances and services. He directed officials to maintain transparent, prompt and citizen-friendly service delivery and ensure timely resolution of complaints. Prashant Kumar Singh, deputy director general, UIDAI Lucknow regional office, said residents can book online appointments for Aadhaar-related grievance redressal through the UIDAI Aadhaar Appointment Portal before visiting the office....