Pakistan Expands Facial Recognition for Identity Security

Pakistan will transform its identity verification system with the introduction of facial recognition technology in different segments of society. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA Pakistan) is set to roll out this service on January 15, 2025, through the Pak-ID mobile app and registration centers across the country. The drive is designed to support citizens, particularly the elderly and pensioners, who have difficulty with fingerprint-based identification.

The step is correct within the overall National Registration & Biometric Policy Framework (NR&BP) notified by the Federal Government on January 1, 2025. The policy framework aims to digitize, as well as secure, Pakistan’s biometric ecosystem by resolving anomalies and issues such as identity theft and data inconsistencies.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) also plans to extend biometric verification to include facial recognition and iris scanning technology. There is a consultation meeting planned for February 13, 2025, with stakeholders such as Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs), the Ministry of IT and Telecom Pakistan (MoITT), and NADRA to finalize implementation strategies.

In the education field, Punjab Education Department is intending to establish high-tech surveillance systems with facial recognition in schools for improved security. Likewise, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has sanctioned the employment of facial recognition technology for monitoring attendance at school level to further improve the monitoring and evaluation system.

These programs are an indication of Pakistan’s resolve in adopting advanced technologies to enhance security and delivery of services.