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The Department of Posts (DoP) under the Ministry of Communications has proposed a new digital addressing framework called DHRUVA (Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address). It aims to create a standardised, interoperable, and user-centric digital address system as part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives.

What is DHRUVA?

DHRUVA is designed as a national digital address framework that allows individuals to use UPI-like virtual address labels such as “name@entity” instead of repeatedly sharing full physical addresses.

These virtual labels act as proxies for real-world locations and are built on the concept of Address-as-a-Service (AaaS), a system for secure, consent-based management and sharing of address data.

Key Features

1. Virtual Address Labels: Users will be able to share a simple label (similar to a UPI ID or email ID) instead of filling out detailed address forms across platforms.

2. Consent-Based Access: Users can authorise companies to access their address information for a limited duration, after which access must be renewed. This gives citizens control over who can view their address.

3. Interoperability &Standardisation: DHRUVA aims to standardise address formats and ensure interoperability across government services, e-commerce platforms, logistics providers, and emergency services.

4. Public–Private Participation: Private firms can participate in the ecosystem, similar to how the UPI system involves banks and fintech firms. A not-for-profit entity (on the lines of NPCI) may oversee operations under government supervision.

DIGIPIN: Foundational Layer

DHRUVA builds upon the DIGIPIN (Digital Postal Index Number) system.

Key Facts about DIGIPIN:

• Developed by the Department of Posts with IIT Hyderabad and NRSC, ISRO
• A 10-character alphanumeric code representing precise geographic coordinates
• Each code corresponds to roughly a 4 m × 4 m grid (earlier approximated as ~14 sq m area)
• Open-source and covers the entire territory of India
• Useful in areas where traditional textual addresses are unclear or absent

DIGIPIN improves location accuracy for rural areas, logistics, emergency response, and public service delivery.

Institutional Framework

• Address labels will be issued by Address Service Providers (ASPs)
• Consent management will be handled by Address Information Agents (AIAs)
• The platform will be designed with multilingual and mobile-first access
• It may integrate with identity systems like Aadhaar for verification

Significance

• Reduces repetitive address entry across digital platforms
• Enhances privacy through consent-based data sharing
• Improves e-governance, e-commerce, logistics, and emergency services
• Strengthens India’s digital infrastructure alongside Aadhaar and UPI