NADRA to introduce chip-based CNIC next year

[Naveed Yaseen]

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will issue chip-based Computerised National Identity Cards (CNIC) from next year with more security features and information of the cardholder. Initially, the Authority will issue these cards to overseas Pakistan and later replace all CNICs with them, NADRA Deputy Chairman Tariq Malik told this news agency. He said the project was aimed at facilitating the cardholder, as the chip would have all the relevant data of the holder, while could be used for various purposes. He said the present CNIC had a 3-D bar, which had not much information of the holder rather it required an online connection with NADRA for verification of the cardholder. Malik said the project would be initiated on August 14 this year as a pilot project and it would be completed by March next. Replying to a question, he said it would be a cost-effective project, as each card would cost Rs 80 to the applicant. “We have sent eight NADRA engineers to France for training to implement the project by the Authority,” he said, adding that the international cost of each card was around $ 4 to 5 but NADRA would provide it at $1 only. He said the new card would help eliminate CNIC fraud threats including dual and fake ID card. He added that presently many people tried to apply for CNIC on fake documents but the Authority blocked their data. app

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