Why NADRA Can't Expand its Offices—What's the Real Issue?

Credit:Geo News

Have you ever wondered why some areas in Pakistan still don’t have NADRA offices?

Despite being essential for ID cards, birth certificates, and other services, NADRA has limitations in expanding its reach.

Recently, this issue was discussed in a National Assembly Standing Committee meeting, and here’s what we learned.

Let’s break down the highlights in simple words.

What's the Problem?

According to NADRA Chairman Lt. General Munir Afsar, opening new offices in remote areas comes with a cost. These costs directly affect the fees for ID cards and other services.

Currently, 61 tehsils in Pakistan don’t have NADRA offices. Although the government announced offices for these areas, no further planning, such as budget allocation, has been done.

📌 Important Note: The first ID card is still issued for free, thanks to a policy from the era of former Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani.

Challenges Highlighted in the Meeting

Here are some key points discussed in the Standing Committee meeting:

1. Budget Issues
   NADRA has its own funding system, but it’s not enough to expand offices without increasing fees.

2. Illegal Appointments
   Opposition member Zartaj Gul raised concerns about alleged illegal appointments in NADRA.

3. Transparency in Hiring
   The Chairman clarified that all appointments follow legal procedures. However, the process for his own appointment is under judicial review.

4. Lack of Coverage in Remote Areas
   Many remote regions still lack NADRA’s presence, making it hard for people to access services.

FAQs About NADRA Expansion

1. Why can’t NADRA open new offices immediately?
Opening new offices requires funding, and increasing the number of offices means raising service fees.

2. Which areas are without NADRA offices?
Currently, 61 tehsils in Pakistan lack NADRA facilities.

3. How much does NADRA charge for ID cards?
The first ID card is free, but subsequent cards or services involve fees starting from PKR 1,000, depending on the type.

4. Are the concerns about illegal appointments valid?
NADRA’s Chairman claims all hiring is done transparently, but some cases are under judicial review.

Final Thoughts

NADRA plays a crucial role in providing identity and citizenship services across Pakistan. While challenges like funding and staffing delays exist, solutions are possible with better planning and government support. For now, residents in remote areas must rely on alternative arrangements to access NADRA services.