NADRA: From National Identity System to Digital Revolution
APP
Islamabad: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has completed 25 years of service, revolutionizing Pakistan’s identity system with cutting-edge technology to ensure efficient and secure national identification.
The foundation for Pakistan’s citizen registration system was laid in 1951 with the country’s first population census. In 1973, a formal registration system was introduced, followed by the launch of the National Identity Card (NIC) in 1974, which became mandatory for citizens 18 years and older.
In 1998, the National Database Organization (NDO) was established, which later evolved into NADRA on March 10, 2000. This transformation modernized Pakistan’s national registration system.
Despite initial challenges, NADRA introduced an advanced and secure identification system, with the launch of the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) in 2001, marking a major milestone.
Over the years, NADRA has gained global recognition for its identity, e-governance, and secure document solutions. In 2008, the biometric database was upgraded, incorporating 10 fingerprint scans and digital photography, further strengthening identity verification.
Currently, NADRA operates a nationwide network comprising 13 mega centers, 890 registration centers, 230 mobile registration vans, and 10 international registration centers.
It has played a pivotal role in various government initiatives, including arms licensing, the National Socio-Economic Registry, disaster management, and biometric verification systems.
NADRA’s expertise has earned international recognition, with the organization providing identity solutions to countries including Nigeria, Sudan, Kenya, Turkey, and the European Union. Recently, NADRA introduced the “Pak Identity” app, enabling citizens to digitally access identity-related services.
According to NADRA officials, the authority remains committed to ensuring secure and verified identities for all Pakistanis and is continuously working toward transforming the vision of a Digital Pakistan into reality.
