CLAIM
Is India getting a new smart passport card to replace the current booklet format?
Many users on social media platforms Twitter and Facebook have shared posts claiming that India is getting a new smart passport card soon, calling it an 'All-In-One Identity solution’.
The post says, ‘The New Smart #passport concept, All-In-One Identity solution coming very soon. This project is executed by #tcs in India. Passport on a smart card. Awaited!’.
A Facebook page called Mission 2019 300+ also posted the same claim which had over 200 shares. The post said:
"The New Smart Passport Concept of future is here. The elegant All-In-One Identity solution for every Indian Citizen very soon.
There won’t be any stamp. It will be like debit/credit card. Swipe it and move out👇
#MeraDeshBadalRahaHai
(Pics used are for representative purpose)”
Can this 'all-in-one identity solution' be implemented practically in compliance with the existing set of guidelines and rules?
FACT
No, India is not getting a new ‘smart’ passport card. The picture shared by users on social media platforms is of the concept created by Siddhant Gupta, a UX designer currently residing in Finland.
Gupta came up with the idea in 2017 and told The Quint he has not yet pitched it to any authority in India, hence dismissing the viral claims made on social media.
“I have not approached anyone in India with the design yet.”Siddhant Gupta to The Quint
“Passport card is a concept for future and right now the booklet cannot be replaced with it. The card can only compliment the booklet with the current set of guidelines.”Siddhant Gupta
According to Gupta, a single multipurpose card would benefit India and its citizens more since not everyone in the country has or needs a passport.
Alt News had debunked this claim earlier.
(Not convinced of a story you came across on social media and want it verified? Send us the details at WebQoof@TheQuint.com and we'll fact-check it for you. You can also read all our fact-checked stories here.)
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)