Jaishankar launches e‑Passports: Key details and what it means for you
India has started issuing chip-enabled e‑Passports under Passport Seva 2.0 to enhance security, prevent forgery, and speed up immigration checks. The government aims to complete the nationwide rollout by mid‑2025, with over 20,000 e‑Passports already issued in Tamil Nadu since March.
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Time of India
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‘I stopped using Google Pay…': Sania Mirza's sister Anam Mirza quits UPI apps for mindful spending, sparking mixed reactions on social media
Anam Mirza, Sania Mirza 's sister, recently posted her strategy for money discipline by deleting all the UPI-based digital payment applications from her phone. It was announced through a video that was uploaded to her Instagram series called Little Changes, Big Impact , in which she described the real changes she implemented to manage expenses and create savings. In the video, Anam declared, 'This year, I stopped using Google Pay. No UPI. No instant payment. This year, I emptied my UPI accounts, deleted my UPI apps, no balance, nothing.' Her choice, she said, was to make spending less convenient and more thoughtful. Though the step made day-to-day life a little difficult at first, such as having to request friends to pay for minute things like coffee, Anam got used to it eventually. Her post went viral within no time, garnering attention not only from followers but from a greater portion of social media users talking about digital payment behaviour. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Black Friday de Hyundai Hyundai España Más información Undo Anam Mirza quits UPI for financial control As per her description in the video, Anam Mirza's first step was to remove all digital payment apps like Google Pay, literally shutting off her means of making immediate transactions. That way, she expected to avoid impulse purchases, which, in her opinion, were being facilitated by the convenience of UPI-based systems. Mixed reactions on social media Anam's declaration soon turned into a subject of discussion on Instagram and other platforms. A few people were amazed by the strategy and complimented her on posting a trick that they believed could be helpful to other users as well. Comments such as, 'Makes a big difference, been doing this since 6 months and oh boy we don't overspend now,' and 'Absolutely correct to keep control on expenses,' were left behind by the fans who repeated the success of her choice. One user posted, 'This is definitely make very very big impact for sure,' while another said, 'Little things really matter. I started doing this too. It works.' But not everyone responded positively. Many users questioned whether it was even possible to avoid UPI totally, particularly in a nation where digital payments are such an integral part of everyday life. One user commented, 'Suits you because you're already rich. Only middle-class people like us could relate, how convenient it is to have UPI. People should definitely think before doing unnecessary expenses but deleting UPI a/c for that is too much.' Another user wrote, 'Kaha jaoge itna paisa bachake udao dusro ko bhi kamane ka mauka do,' which implies that excessive savings may truncate economic circulation and avenues for others. Also read | S. Jaishankar launches Passport Seva 2.0 in India: Know how to apply for e-Passport online, eligibility, and other information AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
16 hours ago
- Time of India
S. Jaishankar launches Passport Seva 2.0 in India: Know how to apply for e-Passport online, eligibility, and other information
S. Jaishankar launches Passport Seva 2.0 in India: Know how to apply for e-Passport online, eligibility, and other information Not many people think twice about their passport—until they're applying for one. Whether travelling abroad for a dream vacation, a foreign career, or an unexpected crisis, the process can be either smooth sailing or a nightmare. In the last decade, however, India's passport operations have undergone a quiet revolution in the background. On June 24, 2025, on the occasion of the observance of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar recognised this change. His speech wasn't merely formal. It was a straightforward assessment of how technology, governance, and public service have converged to impact actual people daily. In a social media update on X, Dr. Jaishankar expressed gratitude to passport officials, both in India and posted overseas, for what he labelled as a "remarkable transformation" in service delivery. He associated the program with three pillars: Seva (service), Sushasan (good governance), and Garib Kalyan (welfare). For the minister, these concepts are no longer theoretical—they're being implemented through services such as the Passport Seva Programme. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Aparat portabil de sudura cu laser, suporta sudarea sub apa Esto Cumpără acum Undo The Passport Seva Programme: More than just paperwork The passport application process in India was all about delays, red tape, and queuing up for years. The picture has changed dramatically now. The Passport Seva Programme (PSP), initiated by the Ministry of External Affairs, has gradually revolutionised the way individuals apply for, obtain, and renew their passports. Dr. Jaishankar said the PSP is an expression of the government's overall vision of a "Viksit Bharat", a developed India with technology and governance aligned to better serve citizens. To say it in his own words, "Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan are three major pillars of governance that would take us to a Viksit Bharat. They are all expressed with prominence in our Passport Seva Programme." This scheme is not limited to cities alone. It has spread its wings to Tier 3 and Tier 2 towns and districts with Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs), so that first-time applicants, migrant labourers, and students in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities can avail of passport facilities without having to travel long distances. e-Passports rolled out in India: What it means for you Among the largest announcements this year is the country-wide introduction of e-Passports. They're not new passports with a new cover, they're embedded with a microchip bearing critical personal and biometric information. Here's what makes them different: Secure embedded chip : Located in the front cover, the chip holds your name, passport number, date of birth, and biometric details such as your photograph and fingerprints. Contactless reading : Immigration officials have the ability to read the chip swiftly without opening the passport completely or scanning a barcode. It is quicker, safer, and eliminates human error. ICAO compliant : As per the Ministry of External Affairs, these e-passports conform to specifications designed by the International Civil Aviation Organisation so that they can be recognised at international borders. Tamper-proof : Due to their encryption and secure chip technology, e-passports are less likely to be forged or replicated. That provides an additional layer of security for Indian travellers. The technology used is no different from that which is already common in most developed nations, bringing India's passport program to par with the best worldwide. What are the benefits of e-Passports? e-Passports have several practical advantages: Speed at border crossings : Quick scanning at airports results in less waiting time at airports. Enhanced security : The built-in chip prevents misuse or counterfeiting. Digital storage : All the personal and biometric information is stored safely inside the chip. Global use : Since the passports are compliant with ICAO standards, they are recognised globally. As per the latest updates from the Ministry of External Affairs, e-passports are issued phase-wise and in the next few years will become the norm for all new applicants. Faster verification through mPassport Police App One of the more frustrating parts of applying for a passport has always been the police verification process. Depending on the location, this step could delay an application by weeks. In order to mitigate that, the Ministry of External Affairs launched the mPassport Police App, a mobile app now being used by the police in 25 states and Union Territories. As per the official update in the Ministry, the app has managed to decrease verification timelines to a mere 5 to 7 days in most regions. Police officers currently get electronic notifications, can upload proof of information at the scene, and transmit real-time updates to passport offices. This not only enhances speed but also avoids paperwork by hand and follow-up delays. For students, working professionals, and first-time applicants, this alone has made the whole process much more certain and less stressful. How to apply for e-Passport online in India If you want to know how to obtain an e-passport, the procedure is not that different from obtaining a normal one. Here's how you do it: Visit the government's official website at This is the sole authorised website for applying for a passport in India. First-time users can register on the basis of name, date of birth, and contact number. If you've already got an account, simply log on. Choose the e-passport option and enter your personal details, travel history, and identification data. Choose a local Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for your appointment. The payment gateway has multiple options such as UPI, credit/debit cards, and net banking. Choose a date and time slot. Remember that early morning slots are less crowded. Bring proof along to have it verified, and your biometric information will be captured at the time. Following this, you will be able to follow up on your passport online until it arrives via post. Also read | Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max is available for just Rs 87,000 on Flipkart; know how to grab the deal AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
News18
a day ago
- News18
How To Apply For India's New E-Passport And What Changes With Passport Seva 2.0
Last Updated: EAM Jaishankar's Passport Seva 2.0 overhaul promises faster police checks, expanded passport access, and a more transparent, tech-enabled system. Marking the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at modernising and streamlining India's passport services. From chip-enabled e-passports and faster police verifications to passport vans for remote areas and a global tech upgrade in embassies, the shift signals what Jaishankar called a 'remarkable transformation" in service delivery over the past decade. The overhaul comes under the expanded Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, which has now been rolled out nationwide, and aligns with the government's larger push for citizen-centric governance and a more connected global India. What's New In India's Passport Services? In a detailed post on X, Jaishankar praised passport authorities both in India and overseas for enabling this 'dramatic shift" in delivery standards. He also laid out a vision tied to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development goals: 'Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan are three key pillars of governance that would lead us to a Viksit Bharat. They are all reflected with prominence in our Passport Seva Programme," he wrote. The EAM confirmed that Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has now been rolled out across India, integrating advanced and emerging technologies to improve transparency, speed, and user experience. PSP Version 2.0 launched nationwide, leveraging emerging tech to boost transparency, security and convenience. Global PSP V2.0 has entered the pilot phase in Indian embassies and consulates, with phased rollouts planned worldwide. e-Passports introduced countrywide, using embedded chips and contactless technology to improve immigration and travel security. mPassport Police App has reduced police verification time to 5–7 days in 25 States and Union Territories. Ten new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) opened in the past year, including the 450th POPSK in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, in April 2025. Mobile passport vans deployed to provide services in remote and underserved areas. Jaishankar underscored the tangible results of these efforts. Passport issuance in India has jumped from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024, pointing to greater reach and operational efficiency. What Are E-Passports And Why Do They Matter? With the nationwide launch of e-passports, India joins a growing list of countries adopting biometric and chip-based passports to enhance both convenience and security. Features of India's New e-Passports: Secure Embedded Chip: Integrated in the front cover to store encrypted personal and biometric data. Biometric Storage: Includes fingerprints, iris scan, and facial photograph. Contactless Technology: The chip can be read without physical contact, speeding up airport checks. ICAO-Compliant: Fully aligned with international standards laid out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Enhanced Security: Greatly reduces the chances of data forgery or duplication. The new tech also simplifies immigration procedures and boosts India's credibility on the global mobility map. Jaishankar called the rollout a 'significant achievement" that will empower workers and professionals to access global opportunities more easily. How To Apply For An E-Passport Online In India Applying for an e-passport is similar to the current process through the Passport Seva system. Here's a step-by-step guide: Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Go to the official website managed by the Government of India. Register or log in: New users must create an account. Existing users can log in using their credentials. Fill out the application form: Select the e-passport option and enter your personal and travel information. Choose Service Centre: Pick your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Pay the application fee: Make the payment online through the available modes. Book an appointment: Schedule a convenient slot for biometric and document verification. Visit the centre: Attend your appointment on time with all required documents. Broader Impact: Toward A Viksit Bharat top videos View all From digitising verifications to decentralising access through POPSKs and mobile vans, the passport reforms reflect the government's larger goal of creating an inclusive and digitally empowered India. 'We have empowered workers and professionals to access global opportunities, strengthening India's global workforce footprint," Jaishankar said. He concluded his post with a note of appreciation for all personnel involved: 'I take this opportunity to congratulate everyone at Passport Offices, PSKs, POPSKs and all partners… for their dedication." News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news, expert insights, and trends from India and around the world. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : e-passport eam jaishankar Indian passports Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 26, 2025, 08:35 IST News tech How To Apply For India's New E-Passport And What Changes With Passport Seva 2.0
