National ID cards to see major changes

LAHORE: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) may introduce a change soon in national identity cards, intended to save human lives during emergencies.

The computerized identity cards provide, as mentioned earlier, official proof of identity for Pakistani nationals within the country and abroad.

However, following a newly approved resolution, changes to the card’s format have now been contemplated.

The Punjab Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution that called for the inclusion of the blood group on national identity cards.

PML-N Member of the Provincial Assembly Ahmed Iqbal Chaudhry, while presenting the resolution, said such a facility would provide timely blood transfusions during accidents or other emergent medical conditions.

According to the resolution, due to a person’s blood type not being readily available during major accidents or disasters, most delays are caused by the hospitals or blood banks.

This further proposed update to the identity card will ensure a timely medical response that may save a person’s life.

If implemented, the initiative would mark a significant step in enhancing Pakistan’s emergency healthcare infrastructure and the usefulness of national identity documentation.

Earlier this week, the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA) announced that people can now obtain their first Identity Card, without a smart chip, free of cost in 15 days.

As per the official statement, NADRA has called upon all citizens who have reached the age of 18 and all those who do not possess a CNIC to come to any nearby centre, undergo the process, and obtain their first CNIC for free.

As per law, upon turning 18 years old, a citizen is qualified to obtain his/her ID card, and they also become qualified to vote in general elections.