In an era where digital transformation is imperative, Sri Lanka is taking significant strides towards modernizing its citizens’ interaction with government services through the implementation of a Digital ID system.
Drawing on the expertise and success story of India’s Aadhar program, Sri Lanka aims to introduce a similar framework tailored to its unique socio-political landscape using Indian know-how implemented locally Centre for Digital Public Infrastructure in India co-chair Dr. Pramod Varma, visited Sri Lanka to share insights and lessons from India’s Aadhar Digital ID program, the world’s largest biometric ID system. The system,initiated in 2009 under Varma’s leadership, has revolutionized how public aid and services are delivered to over a billion people, making it a model worth emulating.
Participating in a At Hyde Park session on March 29 Dr. Varma elucidated the foundational principles of a Digital ID system. He emphasized how such a system could significantly streamline the distribution of government aid, eliminating bureaucratic delays and ensuring that assistance reaches the intended recipients promptly and efficiently.
However, amidst the technical discussions and planning, concerns about personal data privacy and security have emerged. In a world increasingly wary of data misuse, the question of how individuals’ information will be protected within these digital frameworks is paramount.
Addressing these concerns, Dr. Varma assured that strict laws were enacted in India to safeguard personal information, and similar protective measures are a crucial consideration in Sri Lanka’s digital ID endeavor.
Reassurances also came from Sri Lankan Technology Ministry Secretary Dr. Dharmasri Kumaratunga. In response to circulating rumors regarding the potential sharing of Sri Lankan data with the Indian government, Dr. Kumaratunga clarified that all data collected through the digital IDprogram would remain within Sri Lankan borders. The primary aim is to use the digital ID solely for identifying individuals for government services, thus enhancing the efficiency and transparency of welfare distribution.
As Sri Lanka embarks on this digital journey, it’s clear that while the know-how and inspiration come from India’s successful implementation, the execution remains distinctly Sri Lankan. The initiative underscores a commitment to adopting and adapting international best practices to fitlocal needs, ensuring that technological advancements serve the people effectively and respectfully.
This venture into digital identification marks a significant milestone for Sri Lanka, potentially transforming its public service delivery system. By leveraging Indian expertise yet ensuring a Sri Lankan-centric approach, the country is poised to navigate the challenges of digital transformation,prioritizing citizen welfare and data privacy in the digital age. TP
