Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Exported to More Countries

In 2026, several developing countries across Africa, Asia and Latin America adopted or piloted India-inspired Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) solutions for digital payments, digital identity and public service delivery. These initiatives were implemented through bilateral cooperation, capacity-building programmes and technical assistance, drawing on platforms such as UPI-like payment systems, digital ID frameworks and interoperable data layers. India positioned DPI as a low-cost, open-source and scalable model suited to the governance needs of the Global South.

Key features of India’s DPI model

• Interoperability: Seamless integration across government departments and private players
• Public–private collaboration: Government-built rails enabling innovation by startups and fintech firms
• Inclusion-focused design: Expands financial inclusion and access to welfare services
• Open-source architecture: Reduces vendor lock-in and enhances adaptability

Challenges and concerns

• Adapting DPI to diverse legal and institutional contexts
• Ensuring robust data protection and consent frameworks
• Preventing digital exclusion and misuse of personal data

Way forward

India can consolidate its DPI leadership by promoting global norms on ethical digital governance, supporting partner countries in building regulatory capacity, and aligning DPI cooperation with strong privacy and data-security standards.