In a significant step towards bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive growth, India has launched two groundbreaking initiatives: the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR) and the Social Impact Fund (SIF). These initiatives were announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during the Virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit on November 22, 2023.
The GDPIR, a comprehensive resource hub, serves as a repository of essential knowledge and expertise on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) from G20 members and guest nations. Its primary objective is to address the knowledge gap in the design, development, deployment, and governance of DPIs. The repository features standardized information from countries and organizations that have successfully implemented DPIs at scale, incorporating elements such as maturity scales, source codes, and governance frameworks. Currently, the GDPIR showcases 54 DPIs from 16 countries and can be accessed at https://www.dpi.global.
Recognizing the need for financial support to accelerate DPI implementation in developing nations, India has pledged an initial commitment of $25 million to the Social Impact Fund (SIF). The SIF, envisioned as a government-led multistakeholder initiative, will provide upstream technical and non-technical assistance to countries developing DPI systems. This fund serves as a platform for all relevant stakeholders, including governments, international organizations, and philanthropic entities, to contribute and help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Low-and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) through DPIs.
These initiatives underscore India’s commitment to fostering a digitally inclusive and equitable global society. The GDPIR and SIF are expected to play a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide, promoting innovation, and empowering communities worldwide.