Lahore: The Punjab government has initiated a biometric verification system for birth, death, and marriage certificates at union councils, aiming to prevent fraudulent registrations and enhance process transparency.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the Local Government Minister, Zeeshan Rafique, inaugurated the Civil Registration Management System (CRMS) in Sheikhupura. This development is part of the “Digital Punjab, Transparent Punjab” initiative. The system, created in collaboration with the Local Government Department and the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra), mandates biometric verification against Nadra’s database before issuing certificates.

At the inauguration ceremony held at Company Bagh, Mr. Rafique stated the initiative intends to provide transparent and accessible public services while eliminating the issuance of fake certificates. The system will be rolled out across all union councils in Punjab in phases, facilitating citizens in obtaining authentic certificates without relying on recommendations or bribes.

The minister commended the Local Government Department and Nadra teams for implementing the system, aligning with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision of delivering public services directly to citizens. The event was attended by Member of the Punjab Assembly Pir Ashraf Rasool, Director General Local Government Benish Fatima, a Nadra director general, Deputy Commissioner Rana Adeel Taswar, district administration officials, and citizens. During his visit, Mr. Rafique also planted a commemorative tree at Company Bagh.