The Punjab Assembly has approved a new resolution proposing a major update to the Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) — one that could prove life-saving in emergencies.
Under the resolution, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has been urged to include the cardholder’s blood group on all CNICs issued to Pakistani citizens, both within the country and abroad.
💬 Resolution Presented by Ahmad Iqbal Chaudhry
The resolution was presented by MPA Ahmad Iqbal Chaudhry, who highlighted that displaying blood group information directly on CNICs would enable faster medical response during accidents, emergencies, and disasters.
“This small but vital change can save countless lives,” Chaudhry said. “When doctors and first responders instantly know a patient’s blood type, it helps ensure the right transfusion at the right time.”
🏥 How It Helps in Emergencies
Hospitals and blood banks in Pakistan often face critical delays when accident victims arrive without known blood group information.
By printing the blood type on the CNIC, emergency responders can act immediately — without wasting time on tests or verification. This could dramatically improve survival chances in road accidents, natural disasters, and other life-threatening situations.
🧾 What NADRA Will Do Next
If the proposal is approved at the federal level, NADRA will begin updating the CNIC design and database system to include blood group data during registration or renewal.
Currently, NADRA issues millions of CNICs and smart ID cards every year for both domestic citizens and overseas Pakistanis (NICOP holders). The integration of blood group information would mark one of the most significant upgrades in years.
⚖️ Why It Matters
This initiative reflects Punjab’s growing focus on public safety, emergency preparedness, and smart governance. By linking health information with identity records, authorities aim to create a more responsive national database that benefits citizens in real-world crises.
The resolution has been unanimously supported by members across party lines, signaling broad political consensus for citizen-friendly reforms.
