India’s External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar officially launched Passport Seva 2.0 on 24 June 2025 during the 13th Passport Seva Divas, marking a nationwide rollout of e-passports and streamlined digital services.

The initiative aims to make passport application and renewal faster, more secure, and accessible across all districts, leveraging advanced technology such as AI, biometrics, and digital verification.

Stakeholders, including government officials, service providers, and citizens, have hailed the move as a transformative step toward efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric governance.

Expanding Access and Efficiency

The Passport Seva Programme 2.0 introduces e-passports with embedded RFID chips for enhanced security and contactless immigration, alongside a major expansion of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs).

Over ₹1,000 crore has been allocated to establish 400 new PSKs and upgrade 600 existing ones by 2029, ensuring passport services reach every district. The programme also integrates India Post for last-mile delivery and employs AI-driven systems, chatbots, and digital verification to cut processing times. 

Officials note that passport issuance has more than doubled since 2014, with 1.46 crore passports issued in 2024 alone, reflecting improved access and efficiency. “This is a game-changer,” said Dr Jaishankar, adding, “We have rolled out PSP V2.0 across the country, in line with our commitment to deliver the next level of citizen-centric service.”

How To Apply For An E-Passport In India

Applying for an e-passport in India is a streamlined, digital process designed for convenience and security. Here is a step-by-step guide based on official procedures and recent updates:

1. Visit the Official Passport Seva Website: Go to the government’s Passport Seva portal.

2. Register or Log In: If you are a first-time user, click on “New User Registration” and provide your name, date of birth, and contact details to create an account. If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.

3. Fill Out the E-Passport Application Form: Select the option for a new passport or re-issue, depending on your need. Enter accurate personal, address, and travel information in the online form and upload required documents.

4. Choose a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK): Select your nearest service centre for document verification and biometric capture.

5. Pay the Applicable Fee: Pay the e-passport fee online using secure payment options such as credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.

6. Schedule an Appointment: Book a convenient date and time slot for your visit to the selected PSK or POPSK.

7. Visit the Service Centre: Bring original documents for verification. Your biometric data (fingerprints, facial photograph, and possibly iris scan) will be captured at the centre.

8. Track Application Status: After your visit, you can monitor the status of your e-passport application online via the Passport Seva portal.

Background and Broader Impact

The original Passport Seva Programme, launched in 2010, processed over 13 crore passports by 2025, but faced challenges in accessibility and processing speed, especially in rural and remote areas. The updated system addresses these gaps by extending services through mobile passport vans and new POPSKs, including the 450th centre in Kushinagar.

The Global PSP V2.0 pilot is also underway at Indian missions abroad, promising seamless service for the diaspora. The programme is underpinned by strict data security protocols, with government ownership of all strategic assets and biometric access controls. 

“Ten new POPSKs have been set up over the past year, and the mPassport Police App has helped reduce police verification time to 5–7 days in 25 states and union territories,” Dr Jaishankar highlighted.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

The Logical Indian applauds the government’s commitment to leveraging technology for inclusive and transparent public service.

The expansion of passport services to every district and the focus on digital access are commendable steps toward bridging the urban-rural divide and empowering all citizens to participate in the global economy. By prioritising efficiency, security, and empathy, Passport Seva 2.0 sets a new benchmark for citizen-centric governance.