The introduction of e-Passports, alongside PSP V2.0, marks another significant milestone for the Ministry. The e-Passport is a hybrid passport that combines both paper and electronic elements. It features an embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna, which store and secure the holder’s data in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Critical information printed on the data page is also stored electronically on the chip, enabling enhanced security and authentication. Going forward, all newly issued passports will be e-Passports, while existing non-electronic passports will remain valid until their expiry.
Source: www.mea.gov.in