WHILE the world is busy exploring planets, Pakistan is stuck with the ‘photocopying practices’. From photocopying every valuable document to getting it ‘attested’ for various reasons, such as admissions, jobs, or getting some essential documents, it has become a non-negotiable norm in a lot of areas where you need to apply for something, especially in the public sector.

Recently, I visited the executive passport office in Islamabad, and had an irritating experience. As the Directorate-General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) relies on the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra) for data verification, it seems unnecessary to present photocopies of passports and CNICs.

Besides, biometric information at the time of presentation and the scrutiny of original documents also ensure that the actual person is present. One fails to understand why all the photocopies are considered necessary.

The process left me quite perplexed. I saw people having to leave the premises to get the copies done from outside the office. This meant leaving long queues and losing one’s spot. For what?

The malaise is not restricted to the passport office, though. When I applied for my driver’s licence, I had to present photocopies of CNIC and a passport size photograph even though the department also relies on the Nadra database.

In most parts of the world, such a requirement is unimaginable. Digital verification systems have rendered paperwork nearly obsolete, streamlining public services and saving everyone’s time.

In Pakistan, not only are photocopies required, they must also be attested by gazetted officers, adding yet another unnecessary layer to an already cumbe-rsome process.

It is time Pakistan moved towards digitisation across all government offices. The existing technology can be used for better utilisation and integration, and a lot of paperwork can be reduced. This will align Pakistan with global standards.

Maimoonah Sundus Khan
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, January 10th, 2025