In recent developments, the Chairman of NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) announced potential changes regarding the fees for obtaining CNICs (Computerized National Identity Cards) across Pakistan. During a meeting with the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Interior, chaired by Raja Khurram Nawaz, the NADRA Chairman shared insights on various issues. Including the challenges faced by NADRA in expanding its offices and the potential consequences this could have on CNIC fees.
NADRA’s New Update on CNIC Fees
During the briefing, the Chairman revealed that NADRA is unable to expand its network of offices due to financial constraints. He explained that expanding NADRA’s operations would require a significant increase in fees, a decision that would impact millions of CNIC applicants. Currently, NADRA operates without direct government subsidies, meaning that operational costs are managed through fees charged for services. Increasing the number of NADRA offices would lead to an inevitable rise in these fees, impacting citizens seeking new or renewed identity cards.
Why NADRA Offices Can’t Be Expanded
The Chairman detailed why NADRA offices remain limited, emphasizing the organization’s dependence on revenue generated internally. He explained that NADRA does not receive government funding and relies on its fee structure to meet operational expenses. Adding new offices across Pakistan’s tehsils and districts would require additional financial resources, which would in turn lead to an increase in service fees. This concern was echoed in the meeting, as officials questioned the feasibility of such an expansion under current conditions.
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61 Tehsils Without NADRA Offices
Currently, NADRA does not have offices in 61 tehsils across Pakistan. The Chairman pointed out that these areas have been earmarked for NADRA services, but government-defined administrative boundaries, or halqa bandi, have not been finalized in these regions. Until this administrative process is completed, NADRA is unable to establish new offices in these tehsils. Further impacting the accessibility of CNIC services for residents in these areas.
Impact of Potential CNIC Fee Increase
If NADRA opts to increase CNIC fees, this decision would impact citizens nationwide, especially those in underserved and rural areas. Increased fees could make it harder for low-income citizens to afford essential identification documents. The Chairman reassured the committee that NADRA has not yet adjusted the fees and aims to keep CNIC services accessible. However, the need for funds remains a pressing concern, and an increase may become necessary to maintain NADRA’s operational efficiency.
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Questions Raised on NADRA Appointments and Revenue
During the meeting, Member of the National Assembly Zartaj Gul raised questions regarding recent appointments made by NADRA and the organization’s use of its revenue. Specifically, she inquired about the qualifications of officers dismissed from NADRA, their security clearances, and issues surrounding their degrees. She also questioned how NADRA allocates its revenue, noting that NADRA generated 53 billion PKR in revenue last year.
In response, the Chairman clarified that NADRA’s appointments are solely handled by NADRA management, with federal government intervention limited to board appointments. He also addressed the organization’s efforts to ensure transparency in financial matters and resource allocation.
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NADRA’s Future Plans and Financial Sustainability
As NADRA continues to navigate the challenges of financial sustainability, the organization remains focused on providing identity services to the public. However, the possibility of a fee increase to sustain operations highlights the need for a long-term funding strategy that balances accessibility with operational demands.
Conclusion
The National Assembly committee meeting shed light on the operational and financial challenges faced by NADRA. Particularly as it seeks to expand services across underserved areas. While the possibility of increased CNIC fees raises concerns for the general public, NADRA aims to maintain service accessibility while managing its financial constraints. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about potential changes in NADRA’s fee structure as the organization continues its discussions with government authorities on a sustainable way forward.