INDIA’S DHRUVA POLICY

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Context:

The Department of Posts has launched a new digital policy called DHRUVA (Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address).
This big step aims to change how address information is handled in India, making it a core part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI).

WHAT IS DHRUVA & WHY IT IS IMPORTANT?

Goal: DHRUVA aims to transform address data into a key pillar of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), like Aadhaar and UPI.
This will help with new ideas, improve how the government works, and make services easier to get.
Building on Past Success: DHRUVA builds on the success of DIGIPIN (Digital Postal Index Number).
- DIGIPIN: A strong, geo-coded (location-based) addressing system that was part of India’s National Addressing Grid.
- It provided unique, location-accurate IDs with clear names and directions, freely available to everyone.
- Groundwork: DIGIPIN helped improve emergency services, logistics (delivery), and targeted public services by linking addresses to exact locations.

ADDRESS AS A SERVICE (AaaS)

DHRUVA introduces Address-as-a-Service (AaaS), a dynamic way for address data to be used and shared.

How AaaS Works: People, government bodies, and businesses can securely share verified address information in real-time, but only with consent.
Key Features of AaaS:
- Works Together: Different address systems used by various groups can work with each other.
- Standard Format: Addresses will follow a common format and have exact location tags.
- Consent-Based: Users control who sees their address information, ensuring privacy.
- Public-Private Integration: Government and private companies can easily use and develop new services with this system.

IMPACT

By making digital addresses a core part of infrastructure, DHRUVA will make things smoother for:

BENEFITS FOR GOVERNANCE & CITIZENS

A single, reliable digital address system is vital for better governance.

Better Government Services: DHRUVA helps governments deliver schemes and benefits more precisely. Ministries, state governments, local bodies, and public sector groups are encouraged to use it for accurate and inclusive service delivery.
Bridging the Digital Divide (Rural/Underserved Areas):
- In remote areas where addresses are often unclear, DHRUVA will give virtual, geo-coded IDs.
- These IDs can be easily accessed and updated on phones or online.
- This ensures that even far-off communities can benefit from digital services, financial inclusion, and emergency help.

UNLOCKING POTENTIAL FOR PRIVATE SECTOR

DHRUVA is designed to boost efficiency in the private sector as well.

Business Efficiency: For online shopping, financial tech (fintech), logistics, and delivery services, accurate address data is crucial.
- Companies can avoid duplicate efforts.
- Reduce delivery mistakes.
- Plan delivery routes better, saving costs and making customers happier.
Trust and Compliance: Businesses can use DHRUVA to verify addresses during KYC (Know Your Customer) checks, ensure rules are followed, and build trust in online deals.
Innovation: The system’s open design allows tech companies and startups to create new tools and services built on DHRUVA, encouraging a vibrant innovation ecosystem.

CITIZEN EMPOWERMENT & DATA CONTROL

A core principle of DHRUVA is putting users in charge of their data.

User Control: Citizens will have full control over their digital address identity.
They can manage who accesses their details, update information, and securely share their verified address for different uses.
Privacy: This approach boosts trust and supports India’s commitment to data privacy and inclusive digital growth.
Accessibility: The DHRUVA platform will support multiple languages, be easy to use on mobile phones, and connect with identity systems like Aadhaar, making it accessible to everyone.

INVITATION FOR PUBLIC FEEDBACK

Consultation: The Department of Posts has released the DHRUVA policy document for public feedback.
Stakeholders: Government bodies, tech companies, city planners, e-commerce firms, NGOs, and the public are invited to review and provide suggestions.
Purpose: This feedback is important to refine the framework, ensuring it is inclusive, practical, and can adapt to future needs.
Submission: Suggestions can be sent via email to digipin@indiapost.gov.in by July 31, 2025.

LOOKING AHEAD: A SMARTER INDIA

Revolutionizing Addresses: DHRUVA will change how India views addresses – not just as fixed labels, but as dynamic, verifiable, and useful data.
Future-Ready Nation: It’s a big step towards building a nation where everyone, service providers, and policymakers can rely on a secure, efficient, and interconnected addressing system.
Smart and Inclusive: By combining location data, digital governance, and user-focused design, DHRUVA aims to create a smarter, more inclusive, and adaptable India.

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