On the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar unveiled a series of transformative initiatives aimed at modernizing and enhancing India’s passport services. These include the nationwide rollout of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0 and the implementation of e-Passports across the country.
In a post on X, Dr. Jaishankar hailed the efforts of passport authorities in India and abroad, crediting them for a “dramatic shift” in service delivery over the past decade. “Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan are the three pillars of governance guiding us toward a Viksit Bharat. These principles are clearly reflected in our Passport Seva Programme,” he stated.
Key highlights of the initiatives include:
PSP Version 2.0: Now fully deployed nationwide, it leverages advanced technology to improve efficiency and user experience in passport issuance.
e-Passports: Equipped with embedded contactless chips, these offer enhanced security and faster immigration clearance, and are now being introduced across India.
Global PSP V2.0: Pilot testing has begun at Indian embassies and consulates, with phased rollout planned.
mPassport Police App: This has significantly reduced police verification time to just 5–7 days in 25 states and union territories.
Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs): Ten new POPSKs were inaugurated in the past year, including the 450th centre in Kushinagar in April 2025.
Mobile Van Services: These have expanded passport access to remote and underserved regions.
Dr. Jaishankar noted the growth in passport issuance—from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024—as a clear sign of enhanced access and efficiency. He emphasized that these reforms have empowered Indian workers and professionals to explore global opportunities, thereby strengthening India’s global workforce presence.
Concluding his remarks, he expressed gratitude to all personnel at Passport Offices (POs), Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs), POPSKs, and partner agencies for their commitment and service.
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