Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has launched the country’s first dematerialized digital identity card system, marking a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey. The launch took place during NADRA’s Silver Jubilee celebration at the organization’s headquarters on March 11, 2025, building upon the agency’s recent initiatives to modernize identity services across the country.
The new digital identity card system will enable citizens to store their identification credentials on smartphones through the Pak ID mobile app, providing a secure and convenient method for accessing identity information digitally. The development extends the capabilities of the Pak ID platform, which originally launched for visa processing and has grown to include broader identity services.
Major General (Retd.) Zahid Ehsan, NADRA’s founding chairman, served as the chief guest at the launch ceremony, which was also attended by current NADRA chairman Lieutenant General (Retd.) Asif Munir and other senior officials. The event included the unveiling of several commemorative items, including a special coin from the State Bank of Pakistan and a postage stamp from Pakistan Post, along with a book documenting NADRA’s 25-year history.
Federal Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi stated in a written message that the digital identity card represents a crucial step in Pakistan’s digital transformation. The initiative will be complemented by a digital verification system, to be implemented under the World Bank-backed Digital Economy Project, with a pilot phase scheduled to launch on Independence Day 2025.
NADRA has expanded its services to reach remote areas within Pakistan and serve overseas Pakistanis, while supporting law enforcement agencies in national security efforts. The expansion includes the recent update to its overseas Pakistani identity card services and the implementation of enhanced verification systems to maintain database accuracy. Major General (Retd.) Zahid Ehsan noted that the organization has consistently evolved to address modern identity challenges throughout its development.
The digital verification system will facilitate secure and instant verification for various services, strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and citizen services capabilities. The system enhances NADRA’s existing digital initiatives, including its recent efforts to maintain accurate population records through enhanced database management practices.
Sources: Pakistan Today, The News, ProPakistani
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