The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) on Monday announced the launch of Pakistan’s first “dematerialised digital identity card” during its silver jubilee ceremony.

This development marks a significant leap in the nation’s identity management system.

The event featured multiple commemorations, including the unveiling of a special coin by the State Bank of Pakistan, a postage stamp by Pakistan Post, and a book chronicling NADRA’s 25-year journey.

A special ceremony was held at NADRA headquarters, with Major General (Retd) Zahid Ehsan, the authority’s founding chairman, as the chief guest.

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Other prominent attendees included Lieutenant General (Retd) Asif Munir, Chairman NADRA, along with senior government officials and former NADRA leadership.

Digital transformation of identity cards

In a written message, Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi called the digital ID card a major step in identity digitisation.

He announced that the feature would soon be integrated into the Pak ID mobile app, allowing citizens to store their ID cards on smartphones.

Additionally, a digital verification system is set to be launched under the World Bank-backed Digital Economy Project, ensuring secure and instant identity verification. A pilot phase for this initiative will begin on Independence Day 2025.

Expanding NADRA’s national and global role

The minister also emphasized NADRA’s critical role in providing identity services across remote areas of Pakistan and to overseas Pakistanis. The authority also assists law enforcement agencies in national security efforts.

During the ceremony, NADRA’s founding chairman, Major General (Retd) Zahid Ehsan, highlighted the organisation’s evolution over 25 years, stating that it has continuously advanced its vision and achieved key milestones in digital transformation.