Understanding Digital Public Infrastructure

Digital Public Infrastructure, or DPI, is a term that refers to platforms or building blocks created by either private entities or government organizations with the assistance of government bodies.

• DPI is a significant step towards delivering essential services in the digital realm, thereby promoting digital inclusion and accessibility.
• It lays the groundwork for effective deployment and use of digital technologies.
• DPI ensures the democratization of technology, granting wider access to digital services and resources.
• It enables digital access to a range of public and private services in a manner that is online, paperless, cashless, and respects privacy.
• Examples of DPI services in different countries include systems like Social Security Number (USA), NHS Digital (UK), and SingPass (Singapore).
• DPI plays a vital role in achieving digitally inclusive growth and promoting equal opportunities in the digital space.
• It ensures efficient service delivery, especially during emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
• DPI has garnered international acclaim for its role in aiding vulnerable populations and ensuring service continuity.
• Establishing common standards for digital system interoperability within DPI is crucial for seamless integration and collaboration among various platforms and services.
• DPI acts as a catalyst for innovation, economic growth, and social development in the digital era.

India's DPI Proposal to SCO

• India proposed the development of DPI as a crucial tool for effective digital technology deployment.
• The proposal aims to foster competition, democratize technology, and promote digitally inclusive growth among SCO member states.
• As the chair of the meeting, India emphasized the need for member nations to create a conducive regulatory environment for artificial intelligence.
• SCO members' adoption of India's DPI proposal signifies the recognition of its importance and potential in driving digital development and inclusivity in the region.
• Member countries also agreed to consider the establishment of an organization to set common standards for the interoperability of digital systems developed by each nation.

Conclusion: The unanimous adoption of India’s proposal on digital public infrastructure (DPI) by SCO members reflects India’s international stature and its commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through inclusive and accessible digital technology deployment for the benefit of member states.