In a major stride towards modernising passport services, the eagerly awaited second edition of the Passport Seva Program (PSP) is set to revolutionise passport delivery. The introduction of chip-enabled e-passports, a key feature of the new passport service scheme, is expected to slash passport issuance time by half.
This ground-breaking initiative is currently undergoing its inaugural trial phase in Bengaluru, underscoring the city’s status as a pioneering hub for technological advancements.
Developed in collaboration with Tata Consultancy Services, the cutting-edge passport service scheme will be implemented initially at two passport service centers in Karnataka’s Capital.
These centers are currently undergoing comprehensive software upgrades and other necessary changes, which are projected to be completed within this year. By December, it is anticipated that the upgraded software will be fully operational, propelling the passport issuance process into a new era.
A mere decade ago, obtaining a passport was a time-consuming ordeal that could span several months. Over time, the system has undergone significant simplification, resulting in passports being available within a week.
With the impending launch of the new passport service scheme, the turnaround time is expected to be further reduced to just two or three days. This is an impressive feat that will undoubtedly enhance the convenience and efficiency of passport acquisition.
The concept of e-passports was first introduced by the government last year, and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar recently stated that e-passports will be issued by the year’s end. The objective behind this transformative initiative is to leverage technology to improve the overall passport experience for Indian citizens.
This e-passport will feature a chip that will securely store essential passport holder details such as name, date of birth, address, and other pertinent information.
So, how exactly do these chip-based e-passports work?
These new generation passports come equipped with a 64 kilobyte electronic chip, just like the one on a driver’s licence. The e-passports adhere to the stringent standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, enabling compatibility worldwide. These passports are designed to prevent unauthorized data access from remote sources.
Presently, e-passports are already in use in approximately 170 countries worldwide, including the whole of European Union, North America region, Oceania region, majority of the South American region as well as North and Central Asia.
Countries like Bahrain, Mongolia, Jamaica and Seychelles are some of them who recently introduced e-passports.
The advent of the latest chip-enabled e-passports marks a significant milestone in streamlining travel documentation and enhancing security measures. As Bengaluru prepares to embrace this advanced technology, the city is poised to set a new standard for passport services across the nation, benefiting citizens and further propelling India’s digital transformation journey.