ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has announced the immediate blocking of mobile SIMs registered using expired or fraudulent Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).
The first phase targets SIMs linked to CNICs expired in 2017 or earlier, with later phases focusing on invalid CNICs issued after that year. This initiative aims to ensure SIM registrations are made only with valid national IDs.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi laid the foundation stone for a new ten-storey NADRA Mega Centre in Islamabad’s I-8 Sector, with the facility expected to be operational by June 2026. During his visit to NADRA headquarters, he chaired a high-level meeting where significant policy decisions were announced.
NADRA Chairman Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar reported that in cooperation with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), SIMs registered under deceased persons or holders of expired CNICs are already being blocked. He raised concerns over government departments and service providers maintaining biometric data in local databases, which risks data misuse and theft.
To address this, NADRA proposed using its secure, verified database to implement facial recognition technology, especially to assist individuals who face difficulties with fingerprint verification. Naqvi directed the Ministry of Interior to instruct all relevant agencies to halt the separate storage of biometric data. He stressed that facial recognition technology must be implemented nationwide by December 31, 2025, under the Interior Ministry’s supervision.
The minister also ordered NADRA to expand its services to 44 underserved tehsils and union councils. He assured that all 31 union councils of Islamabad will have NADRA services by June 30, 2025. Furthermore, plans were approved to establish regional NADRA offices in Multan, Sukkur, and Gwadar, following an assessment in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Chairman NADRA briefed attendees on the agency’s ongoing digital transformation and improved service delivery. He highlighted federal government approval of amendments to the National Identity Card Rules 2002, which update procedures for children’s and family registration certificates to reduce fraud and enhance legal clarity.
Afsar noted the introduction of a strengthened identity verification system incorporating facial recognition and iris scanning alongside fingerprint biometrics. He added that NADRA continues collaboration with the PTA, FIA, State Bank of Pakistan, SECP, and other stakeholders to combat identity fraud, SIM misuse, and biometric discrepancies.
One key initiative is the PAK ID mobile app, which has been downloaded over seven million times. New app features include digital ID issuance, pensioners’ “Proof of Life” services, and federal arms license renewal.
Interior Minister Naqvi acknowledged NADRA’s progress over the past year, noting the launch of 87 new registration centres and 417 additional service counters. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and senior NADRA officials attended the event.
