India is busy modernizing its passport system and many major changes are being made for this. Now you will get e-passports with RFID chips which will increase your security manifold. Also, some information which is important for your privacy will no longer be printed on the passport. The government aims to increase the number of passport service centers by 2030 so that getting a passport becomes even easier.
Indian Passport 2.0: Step into the digital world
The Indian passport has now completely entered the digital world and is ready to become completely modern by 2025. These changes have been made to improve security, privacy and accessibility. If you want to know about these major changes related to the Indian passport, then these 5 things will be very useful for you:
1. E-Passports Launch: New Era of Security
India has started issuing chip-enabled e-passports in some cities including Goa and Ranchi. These passports have an RFID chip that securely stores your biometric and personal data such as fingerprints and photographs. The main purpose of this digital technology is to reduce identity theft and fraud as well as streamline immigration processes and strengthen security. Note: If you currently have an old passport, you do not need to replace it immediately. The e-passport option is available for new applications.
2. New rules related to date of birth certificate
People born after October 1, 2023: All people born after this date must submit their birth certificate for passport. It must be issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths or the authority designated under the Births and Deaths Registration Act 1969. This document ensures authenticity and uniformity in the process.
People born before October 1, 2023: Applicants born before this date can use alternative documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card or school certificate.
3. Removal of residential address: Priority to privacy
Now the residential address will not be given on the last page of your passport. Instead a barcode will be given. When you scan this barcode, your full address information will be visible on your phone. Only immigration officers will be able to access this information, so that your privacy will be maintained.
4. Removing Parents’ Names: Respecting Modern Family Structures
In a significant move, the Indian government has decided to no longer include parents’ names in new passports. This new rule reflects evolving family structures and greatly simplifies the application process for individuals with diverse family structures such as single-parent families and those with separate families.
5. Target to increase the number of passport centers by 2030
The government has planned to increase the number of Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSK) from 442 to 600 by 2030 to improve passport services. The aim is to reduce the time taken to get a passport and make passport services more convenient for citizens, especially those living in rural and semi-urban areas. All these steps reflect India’s commitment to modernize its passport system.
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