The Union Cabinet has approved the PAN 2.0 project, which aims to upgrade PAN cards by introducing QR codes. This raises the question of whether holders of old PAN cards must apply for new ones.
According to Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav, individuals with old PAN cards will not need to change their PAN numbers.
They will receive a new PAN card featuring the QR code. Vaishnav also mentioned that upgrading to the new card is free of charge, and the new cards will be delivered to the recipients.
The government recognizes that the software currently managing PAN cards is outdated, approximately 15 to 20 years old, leading to various issues.
The new system will digitalize all processes related to PAN cards to ensure timely complaint resolution. To date, approximately 78 crore PAN cards have already been issued.
The new system aims to enhance the existing PAN framework, integrate core and non-core PAN/TAN activities, and improve PAN verification services.
Minister Vaishnav explained the benefits of PAN 2.0, stating that the grievance redressal system will be updated, and a PAN data vault will be established to safeguard information. With a unified portal, users will not have to navigate multiple platforms.
This upgrade is designed to enhance taxpayers’ digital experience. Existing PAN cards will remain valid, and the upgrade will not affect their validity.
However, the existing PAN card must be upgraded to include the new QR code, with no additional costs.
Introducing the QR code will ensure that PAN card data is consistent and reliable. The new process aims to streamline operations and promote eco-friendliness.
With the upgraded PAN, your data security will be enhanced. The government seeks to establish the PAN as a familiar identifier across all digital systems within government institutions.
Three Platforms Integrated into One Portal
The current PAN system consists of three platforms: the e-filing portal, the UTIITSL portal, and the Protein e-Gov portal. The e-filing portal is used to file income tax returns. In contrast, the UTIITSL portal offers PAN card-related services, such as applying for a PAN card, updating PAN card details, and linking a PAN with Aadhaar.
The new initiative, PAN 2.0, aims to consolidate these three portals into a single, unified platform. According to a government statement, this new platform will manage all PAN and TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number) processes, including applications, updates, corrections, Aadhaar-PAN linkage, reissue requests, and online PAN verification. The Income Tax Department (ITD) is working to ensure this platform is simple and user-friendly.
To help PAN cardholders understand this new platform, the IT department has addressed several queries related to PAN 2.0.
Question 1: What is PAN 2.0?
The PAN 2.0 project is an e-governance initiative launched by the Income Tax Department to modernize taxpayer registration services. This project aims to enhance the quality of PAN (Permanent Account Number) services by leveraging advanced technology.
Under this project, the Income Tax Department will integrate all processes related to PAN allotment, updates, and corrections. TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number) services have also been incorporated into this project.
Furthermore, PAN verification and validation will be available to user agencies such as financial institutions, banks, government entities, and central and state government departments through an online PAN verification service.
Question 2: How is PAN 2.0 different from the current PAN setup?
a) Platform integration: Currently, PAN-related services are available through three separate portals: the e-Filing Portal, UTI ITSL Portal, and Protein e-Gov Portal. In contrast, the PAN 2.0 project will provide all PAN and TAN-related services through a single unified portal.
This new portal will offer end-to-end services for PAN and TAN, including allotment, updates, corrections, online PAN verification (OPV), Know Your AO (Assessing Officer), Aadhaar-PAN linking, PAN verification, requests for e-PAN, and requests for reprints of PAN cards.
b) Use of technology for paperless processes: Unlike the current system, which involves paper-based processes, services under PAN 2.0 will be delivered online, with a paperless approach.
c) Convenience for taxpayers: PAN allotments, updates, and corrections will be free. The e-PAN will be sent to the registered email address. However, applicants requesting a physical PAN card must do so with a prescribed fee of ₹50 (for domestic delivery). For delivery of the card outside India, applicants will be charged ₹15 plus India Post charges.
Question 3: Will existing PAN card holders need to apply for a new PAN under the upgraded system? Do you need to change your PAN number?
Under the upgraded PAN 2.0 system, existing PAN card holders will not need to apply for a new PAN and will remain with their current PAN numbers.
Question 4: Can name, spelling, and address be changed?
Existing PAN holders who wish to make corrections or updates to their PAN details—such as email, mobile number, address, or demographic information like name and date of birth—can do so free of charge after the launch of the PAN 2.0 project.
Until then, PAN holders can use the free Aadhaar online facility to update or correct their email, mobile number, and address by visiting the designated URLs.