UIDAI - Unique Identification Authority of India has alerted the Indian public against laminating or plasticizing their Aadhaar cards, as unauthorized printing may render the QR code dysfunctional or expose personal data without consent. UIDAI emphasizes that Aadhaar letters, cutaway portions, downloaded versions on regular paper, or mAadhaar are all valid. Unauthorized printing of Aadhaar smart cards is deemed unnecessary and costly, with CEO Ajay Bhushan Pandey confirming that plastic Aadhaar smart cards are a waste. The act of collecting Aadhaar information for unauthorized printing is considered a criminal offense punishable by law.