FROM AADHAAR TO UPI: Should the World Adopt India's DPI Playbook?

INDIA COULD LEAD THE WAY in helping the world embrace this opportunity to build a more equitable, inclusive, and prosperous digital future.

- By Lloyd Mathias & Shailesh Haribhakti

India has consistently captivated the world with its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. From the ever-growing popularity of Bollywood to the holistic practices of yoga and ayurveda, India has made significant global contributions. Now, building on its technological prowess and commitment to digital inclusion, India is poised to export another area of expertise to the world: Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

In a mere nine years, India has shattered conventional timelines, accelerating decades of digital progress. This unprecedented leap forward has been powered by a cornerstone that has propelled the nation into a global digital powerhouse. More than just a collection of technological tools, DPI represents a paradigm shift in how we conceptualize, develop, access and utilise services. It encompasses the now-familiar components of the United Payments Interface (UPI), Aadhaar, PAN, pension platforms, eKYC, the sovereign cloud, and the expanding network of APIs. These elements, once novel concepts, are now interwoven into the fabric of daily life, facilitating seamless transactions, streamlined access to government services, and the creation of a vibrant digital economy.

Further amplifying this ecosystem and illustrating India's commitment to an inclusive and interconnected digital society, is the rise of platforms like the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC). By challenging the dominance of tech monopolies, empowering small businesses, and creating a unified network that connects buyers and sellers, this innovative platform has democratized online commerce, levelling the playing field for all. The growing prominence of ONDC is evident in its impressive numbers, having crossed over 100 million transactions this September 2024.