India’s online passport application service to start in United Kingdom

India on Monday announced the launch of an online-only passport application service in the UK from Wednesday, a move aimed at streamlining services provided by the Indian mission here. ‘Applications for Passports will be accepted at the High Commission of India through online appointment system only with effect from July 23,’ a High Commission of India statement said here. ‘A total of 100 slots on daily basis will be available. The High Commission will continue to accept applications through post,’ it said. The move is among a series of steps introduced by the Indian mission here to streamline services. The Indian mission had recently also set up a ‘Public Response Unit’ as well as weekly ‘Open Houses’ to coordinate its response to a growing number of queries from NRIs and people of Indian-origin in the UK.