Passport Mela in 7 cities

The 'Passport Mela' in the seven cities will accept applications for all passport related services "other than tatkaal", the External Affairs Ministry said.

The ministry also announced completion of the nation-wide rollout of 77 Passport Seva Kendras (PSK), with the launch of the facility at Bhikaji Cama Place in the capital.

The ministry said it was improving governance in passport offices by focussing on citizen-centricity, service orientation and transparency.

The online application and appointment system at the PSKs was aimed at cutting down waiting time for the applicants, but the system has not worked for hundreds of applicants due to technical glitches and other factors.

Under the new system, if appointments were not available and the passport was required urgently, walk-in facility can be allowed by the concerned regional passport officer.

Applicants are required to fill up the new application form physically for passport services and submit the same at either Regional Passport Office or any of the Passport Seva Kendra under its jurisdiction between 10 a.M. And 2 p.M.

Each application has to be attached with a self attested copy of each of requisite documents. The applicant is also required to carry original documents for verification.

Online appointments are not required for the 'Passport Mela' and applications will be on walk-in basis only in person and not through any third party.