While addressing a virtual press conference on the Passport Seva Divas on June 24, India’s external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar announced that Indians will be able to apply for a chip-enabled electronic passport (e-passport) soon.
Jaishankar said that the focus of the government has been to increase the use of technology and digitisation, and one important step here is the introduction of chip-enabled e-passports with advanced security features for the nationals.
He said, “We are working with the Indian Security Press, Nashik, and National Informatics Centre to implement this project.
“I am confident that the introduction of e-passports will greatly strengthen the security of our travel documents. The procurement process for the production of e-passport is underway.”
Jaishankar stressed that the ministry is giving this project utmost importance, and also emphasised that it is necessary to roll out the manufacturing of e-passports on a priority basis.
The minister also lauded the Indian Security Press for its continuous effort in improving the quality and security features of the passport booklet.
“Digital platforms like ‘mpassport seva’ mobile application and ‘apply from anywhere’ passport scheme shows how well the technology can be used in this domain of passport,” he added.
Dr S Jaishankar’s virtual address: