The National Digital Identity Project has so far collected biometric data of more than 256,000 individuals from nine districts. Led by the Department of Census and Civil Registration together with DeSuung, the team is currently in Gelephu collecting data from 12 gewogs and Gelephu Thromde.
National Digital Identity is a major component of the Digital Drukyul Flagship programme which will ensure better online public service delivery.
The biometric data includes facial images, fingerprints and palm scans. The data will be used for verification and authentication of the National Digital Identity. Under the project, individuals will be given a unique digital identity based on biometric information.
Once the project is complete, individuals will no longer have to visit offices in person for vital services including opening bank accounts, and land transactions which currently require face-to-face interaction.
“I feel this system will benefit our communities. We don’t have to visit offices in person,” said Penjor, a resident in Gelephu.
“It will be easier for the public to avail themselves of government services without having to visit offices in person. We will be able to do so online,” said Budhiman Nepal.
“Till now, people have to visit offices personally for services such as land transactions, forestry, and census-related services. But after completing the collection of NDI, citizens will be provided with a National Digital Identification number. With this facility, individuals will no longer be required to visit offices personally,” said Tenzin Choeda, Program Coordinator of Sarpang.
According to the Department of Informational Technology and Telecom, 65 per cent of the overall project is complete as of June.
The project consists of two components, the collection of biometric data and the development of a national digital identity solution.
The team has completed biometric data collection in Bumthang, Haa, Gasa, Punakha, Wangdue Phodrang, Monggar, Pema Gatshel, Trashigang and Zhemgang.
The department said there will be separate announcements for those who missed the biometric collection in these districts.
Meanwhile, the development of the National Digital Identity Solution is expected to begin by the mid of next year. Additionally, the project is also looking into putting in place the necessary legal and regulatory framework.
Karma Wangdi, Gelephu
Edited by Phub Gyem
