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In May 2025, the Department of Posts, under the Ministry of Communications, released the policy framework for DHRUVA (Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address) — a key initiative aimed at creating a standardized, geo-coded digital address infrastructure across India.

What is DHRUVA?

DHRUVA is a Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiative that conceptualizes Address-as-a-Service (AaaS) — a secure, consent-based, and interoperable system for managing and sharing address data. It builds upon the earlier DIGIPIN (Digital Postal Index Number) system, which created a national-level, geo-tagged addressing grid for improved governance and service delivery.

Objectives of DHRUVA

• Transform address information into a digital public good.
• Enable secure, standardized, and interoperable access to address data across sectors.
• Empower users with control and consent over how their address data is shared.
• Promote public-private collaboration in areas like logistics, e-governance, and financial inclusion.

Key Features

• DIGIPIN Backbone: Utilizes the Digital Postal Index Number system, allowing logical and directional naming of addresses with precise geolocation.
• Address-as-a-Service (AaaS): Facilitates seamless address validation, authentication, and sharing across government and private platforms.
• User Autonomy: Individuals can manage and consent to how their address data is used, ensuring privacy and user-centric governance.
• Open & Inclusive Access: The infrastructure is freely accessible, promoting innovation and broad-based adoption.
• Consent Framework: Address data sharing will be user-approved, ensuring a secure and trusted digital ecosystem.

Significance of DHRUVA

• Geospatial Governance: Enhances planning, disaster management, and delivery of public services through precise address mapping.
• Improved Logistics & E-Commerce: Enables more efficient last-mile delivery, reducing ambiguity in address identification.
• Financial Inclusion: Facilitates smoother KYC, subsidy disbursement, and service access in rural and underserved areas.
• Ease of Living & Digital India: Aligns with broader national goals by supporting smart governance and digital transformation.
• Public-Private Synergy: Encourages co-creation of solutions by government bodies and private enterprises based on shared, trusted digital address data.