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Role of Digital Public Infrastructures at the G20 Summit

Insights into Global Initiatives and India's Contributions

Role of Digital Public Infrastructures at the G20 Summit

  • 11 Sep, 2023
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Digital Public Infrastructures at the G20 Summit

The G20 summit has highlighted significant discussions regarding Digital Public Infrastructures (DPIs). One of the primary issues is the resistance from developed nations to formalize interoperable DPIs. Their concerns center around data security and the potential risks posed to private payment networks.

India's Position on DPIs

India is likely to advocate for interoperability as a "long-term goal" in the upcoming Delhi declaration. This stance reflects the ongoing lack of consensus among G20 member countries regarding DPIs.

India's Contributions to the DPI Discourse

As the G20 president, India has showcased several successful DPI initiatives, including Aadhaar, Co-Win, UPI, DigiLocker, and BHASHINI. These programs are vital in promoting digital identity, ensuring financial inclusion, and providing equitable access to education and health services.

B20 Recommendations on DPIs

The B20, which represents the business community within the G20, has proposed the creation of globally recognized interoperable digital identities. They emphasize the importance of unique digital identification for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and individuals, recommending that these guidelines be established within three years.

Defining Digital Public Infrastructures

The G20 Digital Economy outcome document explains that DPI is an evolving concept that varies by country context and terminology. It acknowledges the potential of DPIs to provide shared technological infrastructures for both public and private sectors.

Concerns Regarding Digital Public Infrastructures

Despite their potential, there are significant concerns related to DPIs. The outcome document highlights issues like data breaches, privacy violations, and intellectual property rights infringements. Additionally, the risks associated with poorly developed DPIs are a cause for worry.

Addressing Concerns through Multi-Stakeholder Approaches

The G20 proposes a multi-stakeholder approach to tackle these concerns. This includes capacity building, technical assistance, and funding support, particularly for low and middle-income countries, to ensure the effective implementation of inclusive and sustainable DPIs.

One Future Alliance (OFA)

India has proposed the One Future Alliance (OFA), a voluntary initiative aimed at uniting various stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, and NGOs. This initiative aims to consolidate global efforts within the DPI ecosystem.

Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR)

Another Indian proposal is the Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR), which serves as a virtual repository for DPIs shared voluntarily by G20 members and beyond. Its purpose is to facilitate the sharing of best practices and experiences in DPI development and deployment.

Significance of Digital Public Infrastructures

When implemented effectively, DPIs can transform public and private sector services. They can provide shared digital infrastructures that enhance financial inclusion, support digital identity initiatives, and ensure equitable access to essential services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What are the main issues regarding DPIs at the G20 summit?
Answer: Developed countries are concerned about data security and potential threats to private payment networks, leading to resistance in formalizing interoperable DPIs.

Q2. What stance is India likely to adopt regarding DPIs?
Answer: India may propose interoperability as a long-term goal in the G20's Delhi declaration, reflecting the lack of consensus among member nations.

Q3. How has India contributed to the discussion on DPIs?
Answer: India has highlighted successful DPI initiatives such as Aadhaar and UPI, showcasing their role in enhancing digital identity and financial inclusion during its G20 presidency.

Q4. What is the B20's recommendation related to DPIs?
Answer: The B20 recommends establishing globally recognized interoperable digital identities for individuals and MSMEs, aiming for implementation within three years.

Q5. How does the G20 propose to address DPI concerns?
Answer: The G20 emphasizes a multi-stakeholder approach, including capacity building and funding support for low and middle-income countries to ensure effective DPI implementation.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the main concern of developed countries regarding DPIs at the G20 summit?
A) Data security risks
B) High implementation costs
C) Lack of public interest
D) Overregulation of digital markets
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: What does the B20 recommend for MSMEs?
A) Abolishing digital identities
B) Establishing unique digital identification
C) Increasing physical documentation
D) Limiting digital access
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What is the One Future Alliance (OFA)?
A) A financial institution
B) A coalition of governments only
C) A voluntary initiative for DPI collaboration
D) A private sector organization
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What does the GDPIR aim to do?
A) Reduce digital identities
B) Share best practices in DPIs
C) Limit access to digital technologies
D) Increase regulatory barriers
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: Which of the following is NOT a concern regarding DPIs?
A) Data breaches
B) Privacy violations
C) Enhanced service delivery
D) Intellectual property rights violations
Correct Answer: C

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