- Context: The Union Home Ministry notified the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2026, introducing electronic Overseas Citizen of India (e-OCI) cards, fully online applications, and stricter norms on dual passports for minors.
Digital Transformation of OCI System
- Introduction of electronic OCI (e-OCI) cards alongside physical cards.
- Shift to a fully online application process.
- Elimination of duplicate physical paperwork.
- Creation of a centralised digital registry of OCI holders.
Biometric Integration
- Applicants must consent to sharing biometric data.
- Enables integration with fast-track immigration programmes.
- May allow automatic future enrolment.
Significance
- Promotes paperless governance and ease of doing processes.
- Enhances efficiency, transparency, and data management.
- Strengthens immigration facilitation and regulatory oversight.
- Addresses legal gaps related to dual nationality in minors.
