India Issues Record 8 Million Secure E-Passports in Just 6 Months, Revolutionizing Immigration Process
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New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs has made a significant stride in its e-governance initiative by issuing over 8 million electronic passports in the past six months. This unprecedented feat is part of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP-V 2.0) aimed at providing a seamless and secure immigration experience for citizens. The new e-passports, embedded with advanced security features, include a microchip that stores the holder's facial image and demographic data, ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the information. Additionally, the e-passports feature radio frequency identification chips, meeting the stringent standards of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for global recognition. According to officials, the MEA is issuing approximately 50,000 e-passports daily, with over 62,000 issued by Indian missions abroad. The switch from legacy to e-passports has been likened to an upgrade from 3G to 5G technology, providing a significant leap in security and efficiency. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), India's largest software exporter, has played a crucial role in bringing technology to the e-passport initiative. The PSP-V 2.0 program aims to create a digital ecosystem, integrating various stakeholders and databases, improving citizen interface, and enhancing data security. Key features of the PSP-V 2.0 include an interactive citizens' portal, chatbot for query resolution, biometric and facial recognition solutions, AI-based alerts, and integration with DigiLocker, Aadhar, and PAN. The program also employs advanced data analytics and robotic process automation for document validation. With India's passport network spanning 511 Lok Sabha constituencies, the remaining 32 are expected to be covered within a year. As the country moves towards a digital transformation, the e-passport initiative is set to revolutionize the immigration process, providing citizens with a safer and more efficient experience.
