India’s Digital Public Infrastructure: A Path to Inclusive Growth
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is crucial for inclusive growth, especially in emerging economies. India’s initiatives like Aadhar for digital identity and UPI for digital payments are leading the way. A report titled “Unified Data Highways” by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Boston Consulting Group (BCG) highlights these efforts.
Unified Data Highways: The Future
The report introduces Unified Data Highways (UDH) as the next frontier in DPI, expected to unlock USD 3-4 trillion annually for emerging nations by 2030. UDH is set to revolutionize responsible data sharing globally, with significant economic and social benefits.
India’s Digital Initiatives
India’s Digilocker and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission have integrated government services and personalized healthcare. Digital delivery of services, agri-tech advisory, and energy optimization are making notable impacts.
Expert Insights
Saibal Chakraborty, BCG Managing Director, emphasizes the importance of vision, governance, technology, and partnerships for UDH success. Yushi Nagano, Head of JICA DX Lab, stresses collaboration, sustainable models, and data governance.
The report guides policymakers and stakeholders on leveraging UDH for economic and social value.
Doubts Revealed
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) -: Digital Public Infrastructure refers to the digital systems and services that are available for everyone to use, like roads and bridges in the real world. In India, examples include Aadhar and UPI, which help people access services and make payments easily.
Aadhar -: Aadhar is a unique identification number given to every Indian citizen. It helps people prove who they are and access various government services and benefits.
UPI -: UPI stands for Unified Payments Interface. It is a system in India that allows people to transfer money between bank accounts instantly using their mobile phones.
Unified Data Highways (UDH) -: Unified Data Highways is a new concept that aims to improve how data is shared between different systems and organizations. It is expected to help economies grow by making data more accessible and useful.
Japan International Cooperation Agency -: The Japan International Cooperation Agency is an organization that helps countries develop by providing financial and technical support. They work with countries like India to improve infrastructure and services.
Boston Consulting Group -: Boston Consulting Group is a global management consulting firm. They help businesses and governments solve problems and improve their operations.
Inclusive Growth -: Inclusive growth means economic growth that benefits everyone, not just a few people. It aims to reduce poverty and inequality by providing opportunities for all.