KARACHI – The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has unveiled a series of significant upgrades to its national identity services, aimed at improving public access, bolstering transparency, and addressing long-standing societal needs. The announcements, made by NADRA Director and Spokesperson Syed Shabahat Ali during a press briefing in Karachi, include revisions to the child registration certificate (B-Form) and a groundbreaking option for women to choose their father’s name instead of their husband’s on their Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).
These enhanced services will be readily available at NADRA’s newly established 24/7 National Registration Centres (Big NRCs), with initial locations in Malir Cantt, Malir, and Surjani Town in Karachi. These centers are designed to provide round-the-clock assistance with all CNIC and family registration requirements. Furthermore, NADRA is expanding its outreach by shifting ID-related services from post offices to 1,200 union councils nationwide, bringing essential services closer to citizens across Pakistan.
Overhauling Child Registration: Enhanced B-Forms
In a major overhaul of the national identity registration system, NADRA has implemented nationwide revisions to the child registration certificate, commonly known as the B-Form. These changes are designed to modernize the process and align it with international best practices for child identification.
Under the updated regulations, children above the age of three will now be required to provide photographs and biometric data during the B-Form registration process. This biometric data, likely fingerprints or facial scans, will enhance the security and uniqueness of each child’s identification record.
For children under the age of three, a simplified registration process will continue to be in place. However, NADRA emphasized that all newly issued B-Forms will be in the updated format and will be mandatory for various official purposes, most notably for all future passport applications, effectively replacing older versions of the certificate.
Empowering Women: Choice in CNIC Identification
In a move widely lauded as a step towards greater personal choice and autonomy, NADRA has introduced a new feature allowing women to include their father’s name on their CNIC instead of their husband’s. This option recognizes the diverse circumstances and preferences of women across the country.
Traditionally, the CNIC of a married woman in Pakistan typically includes her husband’s name. The new feature provides an alternative for women who may wish to maintain a stronger link to their paternal identity or for those who are widowed or divorced. NADRA Director Syed Shabahat Ali emphasized that this change is about providing choice and respecting individual preferences.
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Expanding Service Accessibility: 24/7 Centers and Union Council Outreach
Recognizing the need for greater accessibility, NADRA is undertaking a significant expansion of its service network.
The establishment of new 24/7 National Registration Centres (Big NRCs) marks a paradigm shift in service delivery. The initial centers in Karachi (Malir Cantt, Malir, and Surjani Town) will operate around the clock, providing citizens with the flexibility to access services at any time.
Furthermore, NADRA is strategically decentralizing its services by shifting ID-related tasks from post offices to 1,200 union councils across Pakistan, including 100 in Sindh and 20 in Karachi. These local offices will now handle crucial services such as CNIC renewals, updates to marital status, and the issuance of duplicate cards for lost CNICs.
Leveraging Technology: The Pak-ID Mobile Application
In addition to physical service centers, NADRA continues to leverage technology to enhance accessibility. The Pak-ID mobile application remains a popular and convenient option for citizens, particularly overseas Pakistanis who require identity services without being physically present in the country.
The Pak-ID app allows users to apply for various ID-related services online, including CNIC renewals and other modifications. While standard fees apply, its convenience makes it a valuable tool for a significant portion of the population.
A Commitment to Modernization and Citizen Needs
The latest service upgrades by NADRA underscore its commitment to modernizing Pakistan’s identity registration system. By introducing enhanced B-Forms, providing women with greater choice, expanding service accessibility through 24/7 centers and union council outreach, and leveraging digital platforms, NADRA is taking significant strides towards a more efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric system.