Second phase of Passport Seva Programme

On January 7, 2022, the external affairs ministry and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) signed an agreement for second phase of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP-V2.0).

About Passport Seva Programme

• The PSP-V 2.0 provides for rolling out of microchip-embedded e-passports.
• It is the largest e-governance programme of India, wherein TCS would deploy the latest technologies to ease the services.
• During this phase, e-passport will be unveiled.

What is e-passports?

The e-passports comprise of a microchip with secure biometric data. Chip of an e-passport usually contain biometric information of the holder. The biometric information is printed on the data page of document and a biometric identifier. Such passports are digitally secured, in a bid to prevent unauthorised reading of data stored on the chip.

Creation of new data centre

Under the second phase, new data centre will be created. Apart from that, it envisages to create a disaster recovery centre and Government Secure Repository linked to all Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs), passport offices, Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSKs), and Indian missions abroad.

Electronic File System

Under the second phase, an electronic file system for processing passport across the passport issuance ecosystem; Security Operation Centre (SOC) and monitoring & supervision through a Network Operation Centre (NOC) will also be created.

Who will bring technology for e-passports?

India’s largest software exporter, TCS, is likely to bring in technology for e-passports. However, authority to grant and print passports will remain with the government. All security aspects, including strategic assets like database, data centres, and application software will also be owned by government. The e-passports will also comply with the guidelines of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

Who is designing the security features?

National Informatics Centre and Indian Security Press in Nashik are involved in designing security features for the e-passport.

Significance of PSP-V 2.0

The PSP-V 2.0 will ensure a digital ecosystem, improve citizen interface, process overhauling & integration among different stakeholders & database, upgraded technology, as well as a stronger data security.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2022

Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs • India Nation & States Current Affairs