The federal government has approved amendments to the National Identity Card Act of 2002 to enhance accessibility and recognition for individuals with disabilities and organ donors in Pakistan. A spokesperson for the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) confirmed that the changes will soon be implemented, marking a significant step toward inclusivity.
Under the new amendments, individuals with disabilities will be issued specialized, lifetime-valid Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) featuring a distinct wheelchair logo. This symbol will also appear on the ID cards of disabled children, regardless of whether they hold a formal or temporary card, making identification and access to services easier.
In addition, the changes extend to citizens who voluntarily register as organ donors with recognized authorities. These individuals will receive lifetime identification cards displaying both the wheelchair logo and an organ donor symbol. To qualify, individuals must first register with an authorized organ donation organization.
The new cards will serve as vital tools in ensuring that individuals with disabilities and organ donors have better access to social services and healthcare initiatives. Those who are both disabled and organ donors will receive a dual-status card featuring both symbols, ensuring enhanced recognition in both public and private sectors.
These changes are part of the updates made under Section 44 of the NADRA Ordinance, 2000, and will be formally implemented once the official notification is published in the upcoming Gazette of Pakistan. The revisions will also introduce new guidelines to clarify the design and distribution of the updated identity cards and certificates.
With the goal of improving the lives of vulnerable populations, these amendments aim to streamline documentation processes while supporting the cause of organ donation in Pakistan. NADRA, in collaboration with federal and provincial authorities, will issue the new CNICs for disabled adults—whether resident or non-resident—while special children will receive a Child Registration Certificate or Juvenile Card, valid as per the rules.
