Learn How to Use eSign for Secure Digital Signatures via Aadhaar OTP

The Government of India has enabled a fast and secure way to sign documents online using a method called eSign , which works in conjunction with Aadhaar OTP verification. This digital facility has transformed the way we sign agreements, applications, and official papers by making the entire process paperless, contactless, and time-saving. Whether you are submitting a tax document, applying for a government scheme, or signing a legal agreement, eSign is a trusted tool accepted by various organisations and portals.

This article explains what eSign is, how it works, and how you can use it with your Aadhaar OTP to sign documents digitally.

What is eSign and How Does It Work?

eSign is an electronic signature service that allows an Aadhaar holder to digitally sign a document without the need for a physical signature. The service is authorised by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

The process uses Aadhaar-based eKYC (Know Your Customer) authentication. Once the user enters their Aadhaar number and receives a one-time password (OTP) on their registered mobile number, that OTP is used to verify the individual’s identity. After verification, a digital signature certificate is generated and used to sign the document electronically.

Prerequisites for Using eSign with Aadhaar OTP

Before signing a document using eSign, ensure that the following requirements are met:

• You must have a valid Aadhaar number
  
  
• Your Aadhaar must be linked to your mobile number
  
  
• The platform or portal you are using must support the eSign feature
  
  
• The document must be in a supported digital format such as PDF

Once these conditions are fulfilled, you can proceed to digitally sign the document in just a few simple steps.

Where Can You Use eSign?

eSign is widely accepted across a variety of platforms. Government websites like DigiLocker, UMANG, and NSDL use it for document verification. It is also supported on various legal and corporate portals where users need to sign contracts, applications, and declarations. Financial institutions, educational boards, and human resource departments also allow users to sign forms using eSign.

Step-by-Step Process to Sign a Document Using Aadhaar eSign

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand how to eSign a document using Aadhaar OTP:

Step 1: Visit a platform that supports eSign, such as DigiLocker, eMudhra, or NSDL eSign.

Step 2: Upload the document you want to sign or select an available document within the portal.

Step 3: Choose the ‘eSign’ or ‘Sign using Aadhaar’ option.

Step 4: Enter your 12-digit Aadhaar number and click on ‘Get OTP’.

Step 5: You will receive a one-time password on your registered mobile number.

Step 6: Enter the OTP to verify your identity.

Step 7: Once the OTP is validated, your document will be digitally signed with a legally valid digital signature.

Step 8: Download or share the signed document as needed.

This process typically takes less than two minutes and ensures a secure and legally recognised way of signing.

Is eSign Legally Valid?

Yes, the Information Technology Act, 2000 recognises digital signatures as legally valid in India. The digital signature created through Aadhaar OTP-based eSign is encrypted and timestamped, ensuring its authenticity. Many courts, government departments, and institutions accept documents signed via eSign without any issue.

Advantages of Using eSign with Aadhaar

Using eSign with Aadhaar OTP offers several benefits:

• Completely paperless and contactless

Quick and secure authentication

No need for physical presence or couriering of documents

Legally recognised and compliant with Indian law

Saves time and resources for both individuals and organisations

Safety and Security Considerations

The Aadhaar-based eSign process is encrypted and protected by high-level security protocols. OTPs are time-limited and are only sent to registered mobile numbers. Digital signature certificates issued for eSign are short-lived and unique for each transaction, which further reduces risks.

However, it is important to use eSign only on trusted platforms and avoid sharing Aadhaar or OTP information with unauthorised parties.

eSign using Aadhaar OTP is an efficient, secure, and legally recognised method to sign documents online. With increasing digitisation of government and corporate services, this facility empowers users to complete formalities from the comfort of their home or office. By understanding the process and safety measures, anyone with Aadhaar can easily adopt eSign for everyday document needs.