The Punjab government has introduced biometric verification for the registration and issuance of birth, death and marriage certificates at union councils to prevent fraudulent registrations and ensure transparency.
Local Government Minister Zeeshan Rafique inaugurated the Civil Registration Management System (CRMS) in Sheikhupura on Friday under the “Digital Punjab, Transparent Punjab” initiative of the provincial government.
The Local Government Department developed the system in collaboration with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). Under the new procedure, applicants must undergo biometric verification against the database before a certificate is issued.
Speaking at the ceremony at Company Bagh, the minister said the initiative aims to make public services transparent and accessible and to stop the issuance of fake certificates. He said the system will be extended to all union councils across Punjab in phases.
According to him, citizens will be able to obtain authentic certificates without recommendations or bribes.
Mr Rafique commended the Local Government Department and NADRA teams for implementing the system. He said the initiative forms part of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision of delivering public services to citizens’ doorsteps.
Member of the Punjab Assembly Pir Ashraf Rasool, Local Government Director General Benish Fatima, a NADRA director general, Deputy Commissioner Rana Adeel Taswar, district administration officials and citizens attended the ceremony. The minister also planted a sapling at Company Bagh during his visit.
