India joins list of countries issuing e-passport

 

 

India joins list of countries issuing e-passport. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the e-passport was launched as part of a larger digital initiative called Passport Seva Programme (PSP) 2.0, which was launched on April 1, 2024. The e-passport is designed to enhance security and make identity verification easier. Since e-passports are printed and digitally signed, it offers greater security. It is also difficult to forge.

The back cover of the e-passport will have a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and antenna. This chip will contain the information of the passport holder. This chip will contain information including photos, fingerprints, date of birth, and passport number. They will be stored securely. Therefore, the risk of information leakage is very low. One of the main advantages of the e-passport is that it will speed up the immigration process. Travelers can easily go through the e-gates that can collect information on e-passports. Ordinary passport holders will not have to exchange their passports for e-passports. All ordinary passports issued by the Indian government so far can be used until their expiry date. By the end of 2025, e-passports can be issued at all passport centers in the country.