1. Key Reforms:

Stricter Document Requirements:

For individuals born on or after October 1, 2023: Birth certificate is the sole officially recognized document for date of birth verification.

Must be attested by:

Municipal Corporation

Registrar of Births and Deaths

Appointed authority under Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969

For those born before October 1, 2023: Alternative documents accepted, including:

Extract of service records

PAN card

Driving license

School leaving certificate

Matriculation certificate

  1. Enhanced Security Measures:

Digital home addresses: Embedded in a barcode on the passport instead of being printed on the back page — can be accessed by immigration officials.

Parents’ names: Omitted from the back page to protect personal data.

  1. Color-coded Passports:

White: Government officials

Red: Diplomats

Blue: Common citizens

  1. Improving Efficiency:

Expansion of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs):

Increase from 442 to 600 in the next 5 years.

Aim: Simplify application processes and improve accessibility.

  1. Significance:

Strengthens security and privacy in passport issuance.

Enhances efficiency through digitization.

Promotes inclusivity by expanding access to passport facilities in remote areas.

Published by Pragyanxetu

One Earth. One Future