NADRA Services at Union Council Level: Punjab Govt Launches New Counters
NADRA Services at Union Council Level: Punjab Govt Launches New Counters
In a significant move to enhance public convenience, the Government of the Punjab’s Directorate General Local Government & Community Development (LG&CD) has officially approved the deployment of NADRA services at the Union Council level. This initiative aims to bring essential identity registration services closer to the public, reducing the need for citizens to travel long distances.
This decision, detailed in letter No. LHR/CRMS/LG/72/847 dated August 22, 2025, from NADRA, marks a major step forward in making government services more accessible. This article breaks down what this development means for you, which services are included, and how you can benefit from it.
What is This New Initiative by the Punjab Government?
The LG&CD Department has given its consent to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to establish One Window Counters (OWC) or Mini Registration Units across the province. These counters will be set up in selected Union Council (UC) and Municipal Committee (MC) offices.
- Total Sites Approved: 404 locations across Punjab.
- Objective: To provide limited but essential NADRA services directly within local communities.
- Collaboration: This is a joint effort between the LG&CD Department and NADRA to improve service delivery.
All Divisional and Deputy Directors of LG&CD have been instructed to provide full support to NADRA staff to ensure these counters become operational smoothly and efficiently for the public interest.
Which NADRA Services Are Available at Union Councils?
These new One Window Counters are not full-fledged NADRA centers but will provide a specific set of high-demand services. This targeted approach ensures that the most common needs of citizens are met quickly and locally. The following five services will be available:
| Service Name | Description |
|---|---|
| FRC (Family Registration Certificate) | An official document detailing your family composition. |
| CRC (Child Registration Certificate) | Also known as B-Form, it is the initial registration of a minor. |
| CNIC/NICOP Renewal | Process the renewal of your expired National Identity Card. |
| CNIC/NICOP Reprint/Duplicate | Get a reprint of your ID card if it is lost. |
| Modification of ID Documents via One App | Facilitation for modifying details in your documents using the app. |
How This Benefits Local Residents
The primary advantage of having NADRA services at the Union Council level is accessibility. Residents, especially in rural or remote areas, will benefit immensely:
- Saves Time and Money: Reduces travel costs and time spent visiting main NADRA centers in larger cities.
- Reduced Crowds: Distributes the workload from major NADRA hubs, leading to shorter queues and faster processing.
- Empowers Local Communities: Brings vital government services to the grassroots level, making civic life easier for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for a new CNIC at these Union Council counters?
No, these counters are for limited services only. They handle CNIC renewals and reprints, but for new CNIC registrations, you will still need to visit a main NADRA Registration Center (NRC).
2. Are these services available in all Union Councils in Punjab?
Initially, this service is being rolled out at 404 selected Union Council and Municipal Committee sites. You should check the official list or inquire at your local UC office to see if the service is available in your area.
3. What is a Family Registration Certificate (FRC)?
An FRC is an official document that lists your family members (parents, spouse, children) as per NADRA’s records. It is often required for visa applications, educational purposes, and other legal matters.
4. How do I find out if my local Union Council is on the list of 404 sites?
The official notification from the LG&CD Punjab includes the complete list. It is recommended to contact your local council office or the LG&CD department for specific information regarding your area.
5. What documents are needed for CNIC renewal at a UC counter?
Generally, you only need your original expired CNIC for the renewal process. However, it’s always a good practice to carry a copy just in case. The process is designed to be quick and straightforward.
6. Is there an extra fee for using NADRA services at the Union Council level?
The fees for NADRA services are standardized. You should expect to pay the normal government-prescribed fee for renewal, reprint, or FRC/CRC processing. There should be no additional service charges.
7. What is the ‘Modification of ID Documents via One App’ service?
This service likely refers to assistance provided at the counter for citizens who want to use NADRA’s mobile application to apply for modifications (like marital status or address change) but need guidance or biometric verification.
8. How long will it take to get my renewed CNIC?
The processing time should be the same as the standard NADRA timelines for normal, urgent, or executive categories. The Union Council counter simply acts as a facilitation point for application submission.
9. Can I track my application status online?
Yes, once your application is processed at the counter, you should receive a tracking ID. You can use this ID on the NADRA website or via their SMS service to check the status of your document.
10. What is a Child Registration Certificate (CRC) or B-Form?
A CRC, commonly known as a B-Form, is a document used to register children under the age of 18. It is a fundamental right of every child and is necessary for school admissions, passport applications, and getting a CNIC later.
Conclusion
The establishment of NADRA services at the Union Council level in Punjab is a commendable public service initiative. By bringing key services like CNIC renewal and FRC issuance to local communities, the Government of the Punjab and NADRA are making life significantly easier for millions. Be sure to check with your local UC office to see when these services will become operational near you.
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