Pakistan introduces dematerialized digital identity card for residents
In an effort to embrace emerging
technologies and drive digital transformation, Pakistan has introduced a
“dematerialized” digital identity card for residents. The innovative digital
IDs, developed by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), are
launched in celebration of the agency’s silver jubilee. Unlike traditional IDs,
these digital versions exist solely in electronic form, without a physical counterpart.
Federal Minister for Interior and
Narcotics Control Mohsin Naqvi highlighted the significance of the digital IDs
as a major step in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey. He shared that
these dematerialized IDs would be integrated into the Pak ID mobile app,
NADRA’s platform for managing national ID documents remotely. This integration
allows users to store and access their digital IDs on smartphones.
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The digital IDs will serve a variety
of purposes, such as enabling e-passports, banking verification, and driver
licenses, while maintaining interoperability with the existing national ID
system. Naqvi also revealed that a digital verification system is in
development, with a pilot scheduled for mid-August. This system will offer
automatic verification for Pakistanis under the World Bank’s Digital Economy
Project.
One of the main benefits of the
dematerialized IDs is their ability to reach citizens in remote areas who may
not have access to traditional IDs. Furthermore, Pakistanis abroad will also be
able to utilize these digital IDs for online identification and related
services.
The digital ID launch event was
marked by a special commemorative coin issued by the State Bank of Pakistan, as
well as a book release detailing NADRA’s history. A new postage stamp was also
unveiled at the event, attended by NADRA Chairman Asif Munir, founding chairman
Zahid Ihsan, and representatives from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics and
Immigration.
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Despite skepticism surrounding
digital assets, Pakistan is moving forward with blockchain adoption to
accelerate its digital transition. The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has
approved the use of blockchain-based Know Your Customer (KYC) platforms, urging
banks to adopt the shared e-KYC platform for effective implementation. Additionally,
the SBP is working toward launching a central bank digital currency (CBDC),
with blockchain technology as the backbone to ensure security and finality.
Source: https://coingeek.com/