NEW DELHI: Getting a new passport will now be easier with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) having decided to make many changes in the issuing and renewal of passports. To begin with, the validity of all passports issued from September 16 onwards will be extended to 20 years. The other changes include is ‘rules, computerization and more passport offices. The Ministry has dispensed with the system of using only prescribed application forms. Applicants can submit photocopies of forms with immediate effect. “The biggest queue at the passport office was the one to get the application. Inspite of forms being available at some post offices,”’ Chief Passport Officer N.K. Singh said. The passport offices will continue to disburse the forms free while the post offices will charge Rs 5. However, one change that may not be welcomed is the increase in charge to Rs 600.
Article extracted from this publication >> October 2, 1996
