Passport and Citizenship
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that a passport is primarily a travel document and not a proof of citizenship. Although it is issued only to Indian citizens, it does not establish citizenship status.
This clarification follows the Supreme Court's earlier ruling that Aadhaar is also not conclusive proof of citizenship but merely an identity document.
Chip-based e-Passports
India has introduced chip-enabled e-passports designed to meet international standards for security and authentication. These e-passports incorporate biometric data to enhance global acceptance and minimize fraud risks.
Passport Services Expansion
- India operates over 500 Passport Kendras.
- Plans are underway to deliver 1.5 crore passports and related services in 2025.
- The time required at Passport Seva Kendras is under 45 minutes, excluding police verification, with passports processed in six working days.
Visa and Mobility Agreements
- Indians have visa-free entry to 27 countries, up from 16 in 2019.
- Visa on arrival is available in 47 countries, while 66 countries offer electronic visas to Indians.
- Recent mobility agreements with European countries aim to facilitate easier movement for academics, students, apprentices, tourists, and businesses, as well as streamline the return of illegal migrants.
Human Resource Mobility Forum
The MEA plans to organize a two-day Human Resource Mobility Forum to discuss legal migration pathways and foster networking between foreign employers and Indian nationals seeking jobs abroad.
14th Passport Seva Divas
To mark the 14th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted the importance of citizen-centric passport services. The event commemorates the anniversary of the Passports Act of 1967 and reflects on the modernization of India’s passport infrastructure.
