What Are the Key Pillars of Viksit Bharat According to EAM Jaishankar on Passport Seva Divas?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan are the foundational pillars of governance.
- Passport issuance has significantly increased from 91 lakh in 2014 to an anticipated 1.46 crore in 2024.
- Passport Seva Program 2.0 aims to enhance service delivery through advanced technology.
- The introduction of e-Passports will facilitate smoother immigration experiences.
- The mPassport Police App has expedited police verification processes.
New Delhi, June 24 (NationPress) On the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar praised the contributions of passport officials both in India and overseas, stating that Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan form the foundational pillars of governance that will pave the way for a Viksit Bharat.
In a post on X, EAM Jaishankar expressed: “Warm greetings to all Passport Authorities in India and abroad on the 13th Passport Seva Divas. Your exemplary efforts, driven by ‘Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan’, are crucial for ensuring seamless travel, enhancing global workforce access, and empowering our citizens. With the implementation of Passport Seva Program 2.0 and the introduction of e-Passports, #TeamMEA reaffirms its dedication to enhancing the timeliness, transparency, and accessibility of our passport services.”
In an extensive address, EAM Jaishankar detailed the significant milestones achieved and the future advancements in passport services.
He remarked, “The principles of Seva, Sushasan, and Garib Kalyan are essential pillars of governance that will guide us towards a Viksit Bharat. These principles are prominently integrated into our Passport Seva Programme.”
Highlighting notable progress over the past decade, the Minister stated, “From issuing just over 91 lakh passports in 2014, we have surged to 1.46 crore passports by 2024.”
He also announced the nationwide launch of Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 (PSP V2.0), which harnesses advanced technology for superior service delivery. “Pilot testing of Global PSP Version 2.0 is currently underway and will be rolled out gradually across all Indian Embassies and Consulates,” he mentioned.
Discussing technological advancements for secure travel, Jaishankar stated, “The ongoing implementation of the e-Passport will facilitate contactless reading of chip-stored data, resulting in smoother immigration experiences for Indian citizens.”
He emphasized the positive impact of the mPassport Police App, which has shortened police verification time to 5-7 days across 25 states and Union Territories. Additionally, the minister highlighted expanded access to passport services, noting, “In the past year, 10 new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras have been established, including the 450th POPSK in Kushinagar in April 2025.”
In conclusion, EAM Jaishankar congratulated all parties involved in the Passport Seva Programme, stating, “I want to take this moment to commend everyone for their commitment to delivering passport and related services to our citizens. Happy Passport Seva Divas!”