India's Digital Infrastructure Gains Global Adoption with 24 Nations Joining

India is making significant strides in promoting its digital public infrastructure (DPI) on a global scale, with 24 countries recently entering into agreements to implement key platforms such as DigiLocker and the Unified Payments Interface (UPI). This initiative is part of New Delhi's strategy to position its digital governance model as a reference point for developing nations, particularly in the Global South. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has reported to the Lok Sabha that notable agreements have been established with countries like Kenya and Cuba for the deployment of DigiLocker. These agreements include an implementation framework and a non-disclosure agreement with Kenya, while Cuba has already begun developing its foundational DigiLocker platform.

The scope of these agreements extends beyond mere implementation; they encompass a range of collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing digital governance in partner countries. This includes capacity building, technical assistance, knowledge sharing, expert consultations, pilot projects, and feasibility studies. Such comprehensive support is designed to help these nations establish secure and efficient digital governance systems. In addition to Kenya and Cuba, India has forged digital cooperation agreements with a diverse array of countries, including Colombia, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Maldives, Mongolia, Seychelles, Armenia, Fiji, Venezuela, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing with Laos, Guyana, and several other nations regarding the potential adoption of Indian digital platforms such as e-Sanjeevani, e-Office, and e-Hospital.