The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is actively working to reduce the time taken for police verification during the passport application process, as announced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of passport services across India.

To achieve this, the MEA is collaborating closely with police forces in states and Union Territories to streamline the verification process. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to ensure the security and legitimacy of passport applications while significantly reducing processing times. The ministry’s efforts were highlighted during the 12th Passport Seva Divas, celebrated on June 24, 2024.

Additionally, the MEA has expanded its network of passport application centers, including the establishment of over 440 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs). Combined with the existing Passport Seva Kendras, these centers bring the total number of passport processing facilities to 533, improving access for applicants, especially in rural and remote areas. The ministry has also integrated the Passport Seva System with DigiLocker, allowing applicants to submit documents electronically, further simplifying the process.

Moreover, the introduction of the “mPassport Police App” in over 9,000 police stations across 25 states and Union Territories facilitates seamless communication between police authorities and passport offices, expediting the verification process. In 2023, the ministry processed over 16.5 million passport-related services, reflecting a 15% increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing demand for passports among Indian citizens.