Islamabad: In a historic move, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has directed the introduction of enhanced B-Forms featuring advanced security measures for children aged 10 and above. These upgraded forms will include mandatory fingerprint scans and photographs as part of the identification process. The initiative, implemented in collaboration with NADRA and the Passport Department, aims to strengthen national security and protect children’s identity data.

The phased rollout of these advanced B-Forms will commence on 15 January. Minister Naqvi stated that these measures will help prevent identity theft, misuse of identification details, issuance of fake ID cards, illegal passport procurement, and crimes such as human trafficking.

Key Features of the Initiative

1. Mandatory Fingerprint Scans and Photographs

For children aged 10 to 18, fingerprint scans and photographs will be required for issuing new B-Forms. Parents or legal guardians must accompany the child to NADRA centres, bringing their Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) and the child’s computerised birth certificate issued by the Union Council or Town Committee.

2. Enhanced Documentation for Passports

Children within the specified age range applying for new passports will need to present the upgraded B-Form with fingerprints and photographs. Older versions of the B-Form without these features will no longer be accepted.

3. Integration and Future Enhancements

The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports will verify the data, including fingerprints and photographs, through NADRA’s database. Future upgrades will include introducing iris scans, expanded services at union councils, and integrating NADRA’s identification system with provincial civil registration management systems.

4. Digital Services Expansion

Efforts are underway to enhance the Pak ID mobile application, ensuring improved digital services for all citizens. Plans also include issuing digital IDs to Pakistani citizens for greater convenience.

Minister Naqvi Commends NADRA and Passport Department

Minister Naqvi congratulated NADRA Chairman, the Director General of Passports, and their respective teams for implementing these reforms in record time. “This initiative reflects our commitment to securing children’s identification details and combating crimes linked to identity fraud,” he said.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior confirmed that additional reforms would follow in subsequent phases, ensuring the system remains robust and future-proof.