January 15 Marks Rollout of Govt’s Security-Enhanced B-Forms

For the first time in the country’s history, the government is set to roll out B-Forms with advanced security features for children over 10 years old. This initiative follows the instructions of Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and marks a significant reform in identity verification processes.

Key Features of the New B-Forms

The updated B-Forms will include thumb impressions and photographs of children. The phased issuance of these forms will begin on January 15.

In his remarks, the interior minister stated, “These forms will prevent the misuse of children’s identity marks.” He also highlighted that the reform aims to combat human smugglers who exploit fake identity cards and passports to facilitate illegal travel to Europe.

The minister commended the efforts of the NADRA chairman, DG Passport, and their teams for their swift implementation of the reform. “I congratulate the NADRA chairman, DG Passport, and their team for introducing reforms in the B-Form in such a short time,” he said.

Process for Obtaining the New B-Forms

According to the Interior Ministry’s spokesperson, thumb impressions and photographs of children aged between 10 and 18 years will be collected at NADRA centers starting January 15.

• Mandatory Accompaniment: Children must be accompanied by their mother, father, or a legal guardian.
• Required Documents: Parents are required to bring their computerized national identity cards (CNIC) and the computerized birth certificates of their children issued by a union council or town committee.

Integration with Passport Applications

The spokesperson also outlined that these forms will be necessary when applying for new passports. The Directorate General of Immigration and Passports will verify the children’s thumb impressions and photographs against NADRA’s database during the application process.

In the next phase of reforms, additional facilities will be introduced at union councils, including obtaining thumb impressions, capturing photographs, and scanning children’s eye marks. The ultimate goal is to issue digital IDs to all Pakistani citizens.

This initiative represents a significant step toward enhancing the security and reliability of identity verification processes in Pakistan.