Introduction and About DiGi Framework

- The DiGi Framework is an international initiative launched by the US, Japan, and South Korea to strengthen digital infrastructure in India.

- It aims to support projects across India's information and communications technology (ICT) sector, targeting key areas like 5G, Open RAN, submarine cables, optical fibre networks, data centres, smart cities, e-commerce, AI, and quantum technology.

- The collaboration amongst the US, Japan, South Korea, and Indian private sector partners aims to enhance connectivity, improve digital infrastructure, and promote technological innovation across these sectors in India.

- The DiGi Framework represents a shared commitment to advancing digital transformation and sustainable development in India and the Indo-Pacific region.

 

Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and Its Significance

- DPI refers to the foundational digital systems and services that support public service delivery at scale, such as digital identity systems, payment platforms, and data exchange frameworks.

- India has become the first country to establish all three foundational Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs), known collectively as the India Stack. These include Digital Identification (Aadhaar), Real-time Rapid Payment System (UPI), and Data Sharing Architecture (Data Empowerment and Protection Architecture, DEPA).

- The DPI has revolutionised digital payments through UPI, expanding financial inclusion and supporting programs like direct benefit transfers.

- DPI has spurred innovation and entrepreneurship by providing open digital frameworks for fintech, health tech, and other digital service providers.

- Protection and empowerment of data are central to DPI, as seen in DEPA, which encourages individuals to share data securely and with consent, upholding privacy protection.

 

Challenges Associated with DPI

- Ensuring the protection of personal data and preventing cyber threats are significant risks to DPI.

- There's a need to address the digital divide between those with and without access to digital technologies, encompassing issues of affordability, digital literacy, and infrastructure availability.

- Implementing DPI requires major shifts within public institutions such as updating policies, training staff, and adopting new technologies.

- Adequate funding and investment for DPI projects, covering initial setup costs and ongoing maintenance and upgrades, remain essential challenges.

 

Realising the Full Potential of DPI: Strategic Steps

- Integrating impact assessments into the design of DPI initiatives can help ensure they are effective and inclusive.

- Ensuring data privacy and security, through strong encryption standards and transparent data governance policies, is paramount.

- Promoting inclusivity and accessibility is key for DPI to benefit all sections of society, including marginalised and underserved communities.

- Fostering public-private partnerships can accelerate the development and adoption of DPI.