India’s digital public infrastructure is increasingly being recognised as a model for the Global South, demonstrating how technology can drive inclusive development and economic participation, according to discussions held on the sidelines of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva.
The session, organised by the Global Institute for Water, Environment, and Health, examined how digital innovation and South-South cooperation can accelerate the realisation of the right to development.
A key highlight was India’s JAM Trinity—Jan Dhan bank accounts, Aadhaar digital identity, and mobile connectivity—which has created a foundational digital ecosystem reaching nearly 93% of the population. This integrated system has enabled millions of citizens to access banking, welfare, and government services efficiently.
The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) has played a transformative role, processing over 228 billion transactions in 2025. It has empowered small businesses, street vendors, and informal workers to participate in the formal economy, significantly expanding financial inclusion.
Importantly, the system has also supported gender and rural inclusion, with a majority of Jan Dhan accounts held by women and a large share based in rural and semi-urban areas.
India’s digital platforms are also transforming public service delivery. The Ayushman Bharat programme now covers hundreds of millions of beneficiaries, offering cashless healthcare and reducing financial burdens. Meanwhile, initiatives like the e-Sanjeevani and e-Shram are expanding access to healthcare and social protection for vulnerable populations.
Experts highlighted that these platforms are designed as open, interoperable public infrastructure rather than proprietary systems, making them scalable and adaptable for other developing nations.
The discussions also emphasised that technology alone is not sufficient—values such as inclusivity, transparency, and cooperation play a crucial role in ensuring that innovation benefits all sections of society.
India’s approach demonstrates how digital transformation can coexist with social priorities, offering a replicable blueprint for other emerging economies seeking sustainable and inclusive growth.
Overall, India’s experience is being closely watched by countries across the Global South, positioning it as a leader in leveraging digital technology for development and governance at scale.
