A one-day Tatkaal Special Drive will be conducted at Pune's Passport Seva Kendra on Saturday, July 19, 2025, to provide quicker access to passport services.
The Tatkaal scheme requires strict adherence to eligibility rules and original documentation; applicants must be thoroughly prepared.
Plastic smart cards are not valid documents; digital apps like m-Aadhaar and DigiLocker are recommended for document access.
Pune, 17 July 2025: In an effort to ease the passport application process and offer quicker appointments, the Ministry of External Affairs has announced a Tatkaal Special Drive at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), Pune, on Saturday, July 19, 2025. The appointments are open to the general public under the Tatkaal scheme and are part of the ministry's broader push to make earlier slots available.
The Tatkaal scheme, however, comes with stricter eligibility requirements and requires applicants to provide specific documentation. Many applications get rejected due to non-compliance with these rules. Hence, applicants are advised to read the Tatkaal Advisory and Undertaking carefully and ensure that all necessary documents are in order to avoid delays or rejection during the appointment.
Under Section 5 of the Passports Act, 1967, and Rule 3 of the Passports Rules, 1980, the Passport Authority reserves the right to request additional documents or make further inquiries to verify the applicant's credentials.
Accordingly, those attending the drive must carry original versions of critical identification documents such as a QR-code-enabled birth certificate with Aadhaar number, Class 10 passing certificate, existing passport, latest e-Aadhaar with scannable QR code, PAN card with hologram, voter ID, driving licence, and if applicable, marriage certificate or a joint photo declaration (Annexure J) signed by both spouses.
For minor applicants, additional requirements include Annexure D signed by both parents and copies of both parents' passports.
It’s important to note that smart ID cards, such as Aadhaar, PAN, or voter ID printed on plastic by private vendors, will not be accepted. Also, Aadhaar alone does not qualify as valid proof of date of birth. Applicants are encouraged to download the m-Aadhaar and DigiLocker mobile apps before submitting their application or visiting the PSK to ensure easy access to digital versions of necessary documents.
This drive presents an important opportunity for citizens who urgently need passports but must ensure complete preparedness to avoid disappointment on the day of their appointment.