The Indian government has made significant changes to the passport application process by introducing a new requirement – the passport book number. This move is aimed at enhancing security measures and reducing the risk of passport fraud and identity theft.
The passport book number is a unique identifier that is assigned to each passport book. It consists of a combination of letters and numbers that is unique to each passport holder. The book number is printed on the data page of the passport book and can be used to verify the authenticity of the passport.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, all Indian passport holders will be required to provide their passport book number when applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one. This new requirement will help prevent the misuse of passports and ensure that only genuine passport holders are issued with new passports.
The introduction of the passport book number for Indian passports has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as a positive step towards enhancing security measures, others are concerned about the potential implications for privacy and data protection.
Privacy advocates argue that the passport book number could be misused by government agencies or third parties to track individuals’ movements and activities. They are calling for safeguards to be put in place to protect the privacy of passport holders and ensure that the information is not misused.
On the other hand, supporters of the new requirement believe that it will help combat passport fraud and identity theft. By verifying the passport book number, authorities can ensure that the passport is genuine and was issued to the rightful holder. This will help prevent criminals from using fake passports to commit crimes or travel illegally.
The Ministry of External Affairs has assured the public that the passport book number will be stored securely and will only be used for verification purposes. They have also stated that strict measures will be put in place to ensure that the information is not misused or leaked to unauthorized parties.
In addition to the passport book number, the Ministry of External Affairs has also introduced other security features to Indian passports, such as biometric data and microchips. These measures are aimed at making Indian passports more secure and difficult to counterfeit.
Overall, the introduction of the passport book number for Indian passports is a positive step towards enhancing security measures and preventing passport fraud. While concerns about privacy and data protection remain, it is important for the government to address these issues and ensure that the information is used responsibly and securely.
As Indian passport holders prepare to apply for new passports or renew existing ones, they should be aware of the new requirement and ensure that they provide their passport book number accurately. By doing so, they can help contribute to a more secure and efficient passport application process.
