Postal department considers UPI-like ‘labels’ for addresses, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• The Department of Posts released a draft amendment to the Post Office Act, 2023, to introduce DHRUVA, a standardized addressing system.
• DHRUVA aims to replace textual addresses with simpler labels like "name@entity," similar to UPI addresses.
• The system includes DIGIPIN, a 10-character alphanumeric code representing a 14 square meter area.
• The government intends to develop this system as part of its digital public infrastructure initiatives, encouraging private sector participation.

Detailed Insights:

• DHRUVA seeks to streamline address provision for users across multiple platforms, especially in e-commerce and gig economy sectors.
• Users can authorize companies to access their address for a limited time, enhancing privacy through a consent-based mechanism.
• The proposed system will be managed by a Section 8 not-for-profit entity, similar to the NPCI, ensuring government oversight.
• DIGIPIN offers precise location identification, particularly beneficial in rural areas where traditional addresses are inadequate.
• Address service providers will issue labels, while address information agents (AIAs) will manage the consent architecture.

Key Concepts Involved:

• DHRUVA: A standardized, interoperable addressing system to simplify address provision.
• DIGIPIN: A 10-character alphanumeric code representing a specific geographic location.
• UPI: A real-time payment system that facilitates instant fund transfers between bank accounts.