ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) has launched Pakistan’s first dematerialized ID card, marking a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation. This initiative coincides with Nadra’s 25th anniversary, celebrating its achievements in legal identity management and database integration.
A Digital Shift in Identity Management
The new digital ID will be integrated into the Pak ID mobile app, eliminating the need for citizens to carry physical ID cards. Additionally, digital verification systems will soon be introduced under the World Bank-funded Digital Economy Enhancement Project (DEEP) to facilitate authentication for various services. A pilot launch for the fully digital identity is set for August 14, 2025.
Commemorating 25 Years of Excellence
A ceremony at Nadra headquarters marked this milestone, featuring messages from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The State Bank of Pakistan issued a commemorative coin, and Pakistan Post unveiled a special postage stamp to celebrate the occasion.
President Zardari praised Nadra’s role in providing citizens with a unique legal identity, strengthening the state-citizen relationship, and improving public services. He encouraged further technological advancements to enhance efficiency and accessibility.
Prime Minister Sharif recognized Nadra’s global standing in serving one of the world’s largest demographic segments. He emphasized its achievements in data integration and AI modeling, highlighting digital solutions as key drivers of economic growth and inclusivity.
Minister & Leadership Acknowledgements
Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi hailed the launch as a significant step toward digital identity. He acknowledged Nadra’s extensive network, ensuring identity services reach even the most remote areas and overseas Pakistanis. He also commended Nadra’s contributions to governance, law enforcement, and national security.
Maj Gen (Retd) Zahid Ehsan, Nadra’s founding chairman, was the chief guest at the event. Reflecting on the organization’s early days, he highlighted its rapid progress and continued commitment to innovation and excellence.
The ceremony was attended by former chairmen, board members, officials from the interior ministry, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, immigration authorities, and senior Nadra executives.
The event also featured the screening of a documentary and a book launch chronicling Nadra’s 25-year journey in revolutionizing identity management in Pakistan.
