Sri Lanka’s Unitary Digital Identity framework

Sri Lanka’s Unitary Digital Identity framework

Part of: Prelims and GS-II -International Relations

Context: India shall provide a grant to Sri Lanka to implement a ‘Unitary Digital Identity framework.

• The framework is apparently modelled on the Aadhaar card.

Key takeaways 

• Under the proposed Unitary Digital Identity Framework, the following features shall be introduced.
  • personal identity verification device based on biometric data
  • a digital tool that can represent the identities of individuals in cyberspace
  • the identification of individual identities that can be accurately verified in digital and physical environments by combining the two devices.

What is Aadhar number?

• Aadhaar number is a 12-digit random number issued by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to the residents of India after satisfying the verification process laid down by the Authority.
• Any individual, irrespective of age and gender, who is a resident of India, may voluntarily enrol to obtain an Aadhaar number.
• Person willing to enrol has to provide minimal demographic and biometric information during the enrolment process which is totally free of cost.
• An individual needs to enrol for Aadhaar only once.
• Legal Framework: The Parliament has passed the Aadhaar and Other Laws (Amendment) Act, 2019 which allows voluntary use of Aadhaar as proof of identity

News Source: TH