Understanding the UIDAI and its Leadership

The question asks about the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) as of February 2018. UIDAI is a statutory authority established under the provisions of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. It is responsible for issuing the 12-digit unique identification number, Aadhaar, to all the residents of India.

Let's examine the individuals mentioned in the options to determine who held the position of UIDAI CEO in February 2018.

Analyzing the Options for UIDAI CEO

We need to identify which of the given personalities was the CEO of UIDAI during February 2018.

• Anil Dhasmana: Anil Dhasmana was the chief of the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), India's external intelligence agency, during that period. He was not associated with UIDAI in an executive capacity.
• Nandan Nilekani: Nandan Nilekani was the first Chairman of UIDAI. He served from 2009 to 2014. While he played a foundational role, he was not the CEO in February 2018.
• Ajit Doval: Ajit Doval is the National Security Advisor (NSA) of India. This is a high-level position related to national security, distinct from the administration of UIDAI. He was not the CEO of UIDAI.
• Ajay Bhushan Pandey: Ajay Bhushan Pandey was an Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer. He served as the CEO of UIDAI from May 2016 to November 2019. Therefore, in February 2018, he was indeed the CEO of UIDAI.

Identifying the Correct UIDAI Chief Executive Officer

Based on the roles and tenures of the individuals listed, Ajay Bhushan Pandey was the person serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) in February 2018.

Thus, the correct option is the one stating Ajay Bhushan Pandey.

Revision Table: Key UIDAI Facts

Additional Information on UIDAI Leadership

The UIDAI has both a Chairman and a Chief Executive Officer. The Chairman typically heads the governing board, while the CEO is responsible for the day-to-day administration and operations of the authority. Over time, both roles have been held by different distinguished individuals. Understanding the structure of such statutory bodies is important for general knowledge and competitive exams.

Knowing the key personnel in significant government and statutory bodies like UIDAI is crucial for current affairs sections of various examinations. It's helpful to track changes in leadership for important organizations.