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In a significant advancement of the Digital India vision, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched the third phase of its capacity-building initiatives. This phase focuses on critical areas including Digital Public Infrastructure, Contract and Procurement Management, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Managing Large Digital Transformation Projects, Digital Governance, and Data Management. Through a series of specialised training programmes conducted nationwide, MeitY aims to enhance the skills of officials at both Central and State levels.
The second regional programme of this phase, centered on ‘Digital Public Infrastructure,’ was inaugurated today at the India Habitat Centre in Delhi. Led by the National e-Governance Division (NeGD) under MeitY, in partnership with the National Institute for Smart Governance (NISG) as the training partner, the programme began with 32 participants from Central Line Ministries, Public Sector Undertakings, and Northern states, marking an essential step in building digital capacity within government departments.
The core objective of this training programme is to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to manage Digital Public Goods (DPGs). DPGs are reshaping the way public services are delivered, making them more accessible and efficient.
By combining theoretical learning with practical case studies and engaging industry experts, the training offers a comprehensive approach to understanding and implementing Digital Public Infrastructure projects. This method ensures that participants are well-prepared to lead digital transformation efforts in their respective organisations.
A key highlight of Phase III is the focus on global collaborations to enhance Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in developing countries. The Global Digital Public Infrastructure Repository (GDPIR) and Social Impact Fund (SIF) are central to this initiative. The G20 Digital Economy Working Group (DEWG), led by MeitY, spearheaded the global DPI initiative, achieving the first multilateral consensus on DPI. This consensus, endorsed at the Digital Economy Ministers’ Meeting (DEMM), was a milestone included in the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration (NDLD).
The GDPIR was launched as a comprehensive hub for sharing knowledge and expertise from G20 members and guest nations. The repository aggregates standardised information on DPI development, including maturity scales, source codes, and governance frameworks.
Its primary goal is to close the knowledge gap in the design, construction, deployment, and governance of DPIs, providing resources to countries seeking to enhance their digital infrastructure. As of now, the GDPIR features 54 DPIs from 16 countries, offering a wealth of information and best practices for DPI development.
Further supporting this effort, India’s Prime Minister announced the creation of the Social Impact Fund (SIF), with an initial contribution of US$ 25 million. The SIF is designed to accelerate DPI implementation in the Global South by providing technical and financial support to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
This multistakeholder initiative encourages contributions from governments, international organisations, and philanthropic entities. By fostering these partnerships, the SIF aims to support DPI development aligned with achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The third phase of MeitY’s capacity-building efforts is a testament to the Ministry’s dedication to driving digital transformation both domestically and globally. Through strategic partnerships and innovative training programmes, MeitY is fostering a skilled workforce capable of advancing Digital Public Infrastructure.
Such initiatives not only strengthen India’s digital governance but also contribute to global efforts to bridge the digital divide and promote equitable access to public services through cutting-edge technology.
With a clear focus on enhancing the digital capabilities of public officials, this new phase supports the broader Digital India vision of creating a more connected, efficient, and inclusive digital ecosystem. By leveraging global knowledge-sharing platforms and funding mechanisms like the GDPIR and SIF, MeitY is positioning India as a leader in global digital governance and infrastructure development.
