Thu Jul 03 19:36:13 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Chennai Leads the Way in E-Passport Rollout, Over 120,000 Issued**
CHENNAI – As of June 30, 2025, Chennai has issued over 120,000 e-passports since its launch in March, making it the first city in South India to adopt the chip-based system. Regional Passport Officer (RPO) S. Vijayakumar announced the milestone on Thursday, highlighting the enhanced security and efficiency the e-passport provides.
The e-passport, a combined paper and electronic document, features an embedded RFID chip containing encrypted personal data. This innovation, spearheaded by the Ministry of External Affairs, aims to combat forgery and streamline international travel for Indian citizens.
“The basic purpose of issuing e-passports is to reduce forgery and enhance security measures,” stated Mr. Vijayakumar. “The e-passport will facilitate the ease of travel for Indian citizens by enabling automated identity verification processes and making their interfacing with immigration authorities easier.”
In addition to the e-passport rollout, the RPO announced the deployment of the Passport Seva Mobile Van (M-Passport) in Krishnagiri district starting July 7. This initiative aims to bring passport services to rural areas, addressing the needs of those unable to travel to passport offices. The mobile service will be extended to other districts within the RPO Chennai jurisdiction, and appointments can be scheduled through the Passport Seva website.
Furthermore, the RPO is expanding its network of Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POSK), with 13 already operational within the Chennai jurisdiction and plans to open another in Perambur soon. “We have a policy to set up POSK in each and every Parliamentary constituency,” added Mr. Vijayakumar. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to improving accessibility and efficiency in passport services for all citizens.
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