NEW DELHI, India – In a significant move to extend passport services to the grassroots level, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) today launched a new Mobile Passport Van Service aimed at simplifying the application process for citizens in remote and rural areas. This initiative seeks to bring government services closer to the people, eliminating the need for long and often expensive travel to regional Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs).

The specially equipped mobile vans will tour villages and smaller towns, offering a range of services including assistance with filling out online application forms, document verification, and capturing biometric data (fingerprints and photographs). Applicants will only need to visit a regional PSK for the final interview, or in some cases, even that step might be streamlined through video conferencing facilities on the van itself.

"This is a transformative step towards inclusive governance," stated a senior official from the MEA during the launch event. "Our goal is to ensure that geographical distance or lack of digital literacy does not become a barrier for any citizen to obtain a passport. The mobile vans will act as a one-stop solution, making the entire process convenient and accessible right at their doorstep."

The initiative is particularly expected to benefit daily wage earners, farmers, and elderly citizens who often find it challenging to navigate urban centers for administrative tasks. Regional Passport Offices will publish schedules for the mobile vans, enabling local communities to plan their applications effectively.

This mobile outreach program is part of the government's broader vision to leverage technology and innovative delivery models for enhanced citizen convenience. By reducing the logistical hurdles and simplifying procedures, the Mobile Passport Van Service is poised to significantly increase passport penetration in rural India, empowering more citizens with official travel documents.