News: India has formally joined over 120 countries—including the US, France, Japan, and Australia—in issuing biometric e-passports. This move aims to enhance national security, ease international travel, and align with ICAO global standards. A nationwide rollout is planned by mid-2025. e-Passports.
About e-Passports
A biometric e-passport is an upgraded version of the traditional passport. It contains a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in the back cover, storing the holder’s personal and biometric details, such as:
- Name, date of birth, passport number
- Facial image and fingerprints
- Digital signature for secure authentication
- A gold rectangle symbol on the cover indicates its electronic nature.
Why India Adopted Biometric E-Passports
India’s decision is driven by the need to:
- Strengthen border and document security
- Simplify visa and immigration processes
- Combat identity fraud
- Meet international travel standards
The initiative falls under the Passport Seva Programme 2.0 and reflects India’s digital transformation goals.
Security Features
To protect sensitive data and ensure global interoperability, e-passports include:
- Basic Access Control (BAC): Restricts access to authorised readers
- Passive Authentication (PA): Verifies stored data integrity
- Extended Access Control (EAC): Secures biometric details
- Public Key Infrastructure (PKI): Ensures data authenticity
- Encrypted RFID chip: Prevents tampering and forgery
