Passport not proof of citizenship, only a travel document, says Centre

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Indian citizens gained wider visa-free access to many nations.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that a passport should be regarded as a travel document and not as proof of Indian citizenship, while highlighting significant improvements in passport services and international mobility for Indian citizens. The ministry said the government's focus remains on making passport services faster, more transparent and widely accessible.

The update comes as India records a sharp increase in passport issuance and expands global travel opportunities for its citizens through visa-free, visa-on-arrival and e-visa arrangements with countries around the world.

A senior MEA official stressed that a passport is issued to facilitate international travel and should not be treated as evidence of citizenship. The clarification comes amid continued efforts to streamline passport-related services and improve public awareness of the document's purpose.