Context:

In an effort to enhance national and international security protocols, India has initiated the rollout of e-passports. This is an important step toward updating how passports work and follows global standards. The new e-passport system is part of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0. The service officially began on April 1, 2024, and is managed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

What are E-Passports?

E-passports, also known as biometric passports, are upgraded versions of traditional passports. They incorporate advanced technology for increased security and ease of international travel.

·        The new passports retain the familiar booklet format but include a built-in antenna and an embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip inside the cover. These components store the passport holder’s personal and biometric data in a secure, tamper-resistant format.

·        The embedded chip is capable of storing biometric identifiers such as facial recognition data and fingerprints, making it far more difficult to forge or alter the information compared to traditional passports.

·        At the core of the e-passport’s functionality is Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology. PKI is essential for verifying the authenticity of the chip data and preventing unauthorized access. It ensures data integrity and significantly reduces the chances of identity fraud.

The Ministry of External Affairs has clarified that existing passports will remain valid until their expiry. There is no immediate need to transition to an e-passport, as the rollout is gradual and optional.

Key Benefits of E-Passports:

• Enhanced Data Protection: The RFID chip securely stores personal and biometric data, reducing risks related to tampering, duplication, or misuse.
• Improved Identity Verification: These passports facilitate faster and more reliable identity checks at immigration counters globally.
• Reduced Identity Fraud: PKI-based encryption makes unauthorized data access nearly impossible, adding another layer of security.
• Streamlined Travel: Automated identity verification systems at airports can process e-passport holders more efficiently, saving time for travelers.

Cities Where E-Passports Are Available:

Initially, e-passports are being issued in select cities across India, including: Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Goa, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, Ranchi, and Delhi.

In Tamil Nadu, the Regional Passport Office in Chennai began issuing e-passports on March 3, 2025. By March 22, more than 20,700 e-passports had already been issued, indicating strong public acceptance.

Passport Seva Programme:

The Passport Seva Programme (PSP) is a Mission Mode Project under India’s National e-Governance Plan (NeGP), focused on improving passport services.

·        A Mission Mode Project (MMP) is a specific project under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) that focuses on improving one area of government service using digital technology, such as banking, land records, or taxes.

·        PSP 2.0 is an upgraded version of PSP 1.0, offering faster, more transparent, and secure services through advanced digital tools.

Conclusion

The introduction of e-passports is a forward-looking move that brings India in line with international standards for secure travel. As global mobility increases, such innovations are critical to safeguarding personal identities and national security.