Top News

Marking the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar unveiled a sweeping set of reforms aimed at further modernizing India’s passport services. The key announcements include the full rollout of Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0 and the nationwide implementation of e-Passports.

Tech-Powered PSP V2.0 Goes Nationwide
PSP Version 2.0 has now been deployed across the country, leveraging advanced technologies to streamline the application and delivery process. With pilot testing of the Global PSP V2.0 also initiated in embassies and consulates, India is moving toward seamless global passport services.

e-Passports for Faster, Safer Travel
One of the most anticipated updates is the introduction of e-Passports. These new passports are embedded with contactless chips to enable quicker immigration clearance and enhanced data security. This is a major leap in aligning India’s travel documentation with international standards.

Rapid Police Verification Through mPassport Police App
The minister shared that the mPassport Police App has significantly reduced police verification times to just 5–7 days in 25 states and union territories. This has made the process faster and more citizen-friendly.

Bringing Services Closer to Citizens

• Ten new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) were opened in the past year, including the milestone 450th POPSK in Kushinagar in April 2025.
• Mobile van services have been introduced to bring passport facilities to remote and underserved regions, ensuring that even rural populations have access to travel documentation.

Rising Numbers Reflect Growing Trust
Passport issuance in India has grown from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024demonstrating both increased efficiency and greater public reliance on the system.

A Gateway to Global Opportunities
Dr. Jaishankar emphasized that these reforms are not just about ease of travel but about empowering professionals and workers to explore global opportunities. He described the transformation as part of India’s broader vision for a “Viksit Bharat” driven by Seva (Service), Sushasan (Good Governance), and Garib Kalyan (Welfare of the Poor).

Conclusion
With PSP 2.0 and e-Passports, India is ushering in a new era of secure, swift, and citizen-centric passport services. These initiatives not only make global mobility smoother but also reflect the nation’s commitment to digital governance and inclusive growth.