India introduces next-generation e-passport service

India has unveiled the first phase of its next-generation e-passport programme in different cities, integrating advanced electronic features into the traditional booklet to bolster identity checks and document security. This is reported by IANS, a partner of TV BRICS.

The Ministry of External Affairs explains that this project builds on a pilot of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, introduced in April 2024. Officials say the initiative will expand to all Passport Seva Kendras nationwide by mid-2025.

E-passports are already available in Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Ranchi, Delhi, and others. Tamil Nadu led the rollout, with the Chennai Regional Passport Office issuing 20,729 e-passports between 3 and 22 March 2025)

The new passports are marked externally by a gold-coloured symbol beneath the cover and house an embedded RFID chip and antenna. Built-in Public Key Infrastructure ensures that personal and biometric data remain secure and tamper-proof.

According to the MEA, e-passports will significantly reduce forgery and counterfeit risks. Holders of existing passports may continue using them until their current documents expire.

Next-generation e-passports have been introduced by various countries worldwide to enhance document security. In Zimbabwe, the issuance of e-passports began on 18 January 2022, as reported by Prensa Latina, a partner of TV BRICS. Now the government has opened multiple e-passport centres nationwide.

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