Why in the news?

• An upgraded version of the Passport Seva Programme was launched by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Passport Seva Programme

• What is it?:
  • Passport Seva Programme (PSP) is the Government of India’s flagship e-governance initiative under the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
  • It aims to modernise, digitise, and streamline passport issuance and related services across India and abroad.
• Launch: Launched in 2010 under the National e-Governance Plan (NeGP).
• Implementation: Implemented in Public–Private Partnership (PPP) mode with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
• Key Features:
  • Passport Seva Programme Network:
    • 37 Passport Offices (POs).
    • 550+ Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) under MEA–India Post partnership.
    • 100+ Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs).
    • 176 Indian Missions/Posts abroad offering passport and consular services.
  • Digital Service Components:
    • Online application, payment & appointment.
    • Integrated Passport Seva Portal + mPassport Seva App.
    • Real-time police verification via digital interface.
    • SMS/email updates at each stage.
  • Technology Infrastructure:
    • Biometrics (photo, fingerprints).
    • Document management system.
    • Automated workflow for file processing.
    • Data security, encryption, and audit trails.
• Recent Upgrades:
  • DigiLocker integration for document submission.
  • AI-enabled document verification.
  • Facial recognition systems.
  • Chatbot support for grievance handling.
  • Improved cybersecurity mechanisms.
  • Data analytics for workload forecasting.
  • Cloud-native architecture for scalability.
• Achievements:
  • India now operates one of the largest passport-issuing systems globally.
  • Over 1 crore+ passports issued annually.
  • Tatkaal and normal application timelines significantly reduced.
  • Greater inclusion via POPSKs in remote districts.
  • Enhanced transparency through real-time tracking and reduced intermediaries.

EnBUZZER – 14 NOVEMBER 2025