New Security-Enhanced Birth Certificate for Children Over 10 to Be Launched in Pakistan
New System to Combat Child Trafficking and Identity Misuse: Interior Minister
Islamabad: The government has announced the introduction of a new, security-featured birth certificate (B Form) for children aged 10 and above, aimed at bolstering child identity protection and preventing misuse.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Interior, the new B Form will incorporate advanced security features, including fingerprints and photographs, and will be rolled out in phases, starting from January 15, 2025.
The initiative, in collaboration with NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) and the Passport Department, is designed to enhance the security of children’s personal information. This measure is expected to significantly reduce the risks of identity theft, fraudulent identification cards, illegal passport acquisitions, and human trafficking.
Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, emphasized that this step will play a vital role in preventing the misuse of children’s identification and ensuring that their details are safely recorded. He stated that the new system will help curb the rising concerns over child trafficking and other related crimes.
As per the plan, from January 15, NADRA centers will begin capturing fingerprints and photographs of children over 10 and under 18 years of age. Parents or legal guardians will be required to accompany the children to the centers, bringing their computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and the child’s computerized birth certificate.
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After the necessary documentation and verification, children will be issued a new, picture-based B Form. This initiative marks an important step in enhancing the security and reliability of identity records for children across Pakistan, ensuring greater protection against identity fraud and misuse.