The central government has launched chip-based e-passport service across the country as part of a high-tech initiative. With the launch of this new facility in the country, Indian citizens traveling abroad will have many benefits, as well as the immigration process, security and connectivity will be simplified. With the launch of this new initiative in the country, India has joined 120 countries like the US, UK, France, Japan and Canada, which are already using e-passport.
An e-passport is an electronic document. It has an RFID chip and antenna on the back. This chip stores biometric and personal information such as the passport holder’s name, date of birth, passport number, face and fingerprint. This data is encrypted in accordance with international security standards BAC, PA and EAC.
The pilot project of e-passport service has been implemented in the first phase in cities like Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Goa, Shimla, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat in Gujarat, Raipur, Amritsar, Ranchi, Delhi. The Central Government has set a target of implementing it across the country by June 2025.
The e-passport will make the immigration process simpler and more modern. Travelers will now be able to enter through automated and contactless processes through e-gates. This new facility will eliminate many hassles including waiting and will allow travelers to travel easily and comfortably.
