NADRA likely to make key change in CNIC cards

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority, commonly known as NADRA, may soon introduce a change in the national identity cards to save human lives in emergencies.

NADRA issues computerized identity cards, which are legitimate proof of identity for Pakistani citizens within the country and abroad.

Still, following a newly approved resolution, changes to the format of the card are under consideration.

What’s the Proposed Change?

The Punjab Assembly unanimously passed a resolution proposing the inclusion of blood group information on national identity cards.

The resolution was moved by Member of Provincial Assembly Ahmed Iqbal Chaudhry, who believed the addition could provide timely transfusions in case of accidents or other medical emergencies.

The resolution goes on to say that in case of serious accidents or natural catastrophes, inability to immediately determine a person’s blood type often delays the process in hospitals and blood banks.

The proposed update of the identity card would help ensure faster responses in medical areas and probably save lives.

If implemented, it would be a major initiative toward the betterment of emergency healthcare and the utility of national identity documentation in Pakistan.

Earlier, NADRA announced that citizens applying for their first-ever national identity card can now get it free of cost.

The initiative allows individuals to acquire their first non-smart chip identity card for free by just visiting a NADRA center.

Citizens can receive their cards within 15 days, free of charge, but only if this is their first request for an ID card. This step has been highly appreciated among the people, with many asking for the availability of the facility through the “Pak ID” mobile app to further facilitate the process.