India: A digital trailblazer in global mobility

As India celebrates its 79th Independence Day, it stands not only as the world’s largest democracy but also as a global pioneer in digital public infrastructure (DPI).

From Aadhaar to DigiLocker, DigiYatra to the Passport Seva Programme 2.0, India has built a robust, user-centric digital ecosystem that is transforming how citizens travel, access services, and engage with the state.

These innovations are more than just technological upgrades - they represent a vision of inclusive, secure, and efficient governance. Aadhaar provides a universal digital identity; DigiLocker enables seamless access to official documents; DigiYatra simplifies airport transit through facial recognition; and e-passports promise faster, smarter international travel. Together, they form a cohesive framework that prioritises both convenience and security.

What makes India’s model exceptional is its scale and openness. Unlike proprietary systems, India’s DPI is built on open standards, making it interoperable and adaptable for other nations. This positions India not just as a user of digital mobility solutions, but as a global thought leader offering a replicable blueprint for modern cross-border travel.

India’s strides in digitalisation are part of a larger story of socio-economic transformation. With sustained investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, the country is reshaping its development narrative. From rural electrification and financial inclusion to world-class startups and space exploration, India is demonstrating how a diverse, dynamic democracy can drive inclusive growth and global relevance.

On this Independence Day, India doesn’t just celebrate freedom — it showcases how empowerment can be a cornerstone of sovereignty in the 21st century.