Bhutan has become the first country in the world to launch a National Digital Identity (NDI) mobile wallet, aimed at providing secure and verifiable identity credentials to its citizens and residents. The launch of the NDI was announced by Bhutan’s Crown Prince Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, who became the first digital citizen of the country. The NDI was developed by Druk Holding and Investments (DHI) and is based on Decentralized Identity technology, using a self-sovereign identity model.
Self-Sovereign Identity Model
The self-sovereign identity model is a decentralized approach to identity management that provides individuals with control over their personal data. In this model, individuals hold their own digital identity credentials and can choose how and when to share them with third parties. This puts individuals in charge of their own identity, making it more secure and less vulnerable to data breaches and identity theft.
The NDI uses a self-sovereign identity model that allows citizens and residents to create and manage their own digital identity credentials. This means that they can control how their personal information is shared and used, and can verify their identity securely without the need for intermediaries. This is a significant development in the field of digital identity, as it puts control and ownership of personal data back in the hands of individuals.
Secure and Verifiable Identity Credentials
The NDI aims to provide secure and verifiable identity credentials to citizens and residents of Bhutan. These credentials can be used for a range of purposes, including accessing government services, making payments, and verifying identity for online transactions. The NDI provides a secure and tamper-proof digital identity that can be verified instantly, making it a reliable and convenient tool for both individuals and businesses.
Revolutionizing Service Delivery
The launch of the NDI is expected to revolutionize service delivery in both the public and private sectors in Bhutan. The digital identity system will make it easier for individuals to access government services, such as healthcare and education, without the need for physical documents. This will reduce bureaucracy and improve efficiency in service delivery.
The NDI will also make it easier for businesses to verify the identity of their customers, reducing the risk of fraud and improving trust in online transactions. This is particularly important in a country like Bhutan, where cash is still the preferred mode of payment and the use of digital payments is still in its early stages.
Privacy and Protection of Personal Information
One of the key features of the NDI is the privacy and protection of personal information. The self-sovereign identity model ensures that individuals have control over their personal data and can choose how and when to share it. The NDI also uses advanced encryption and security protocols to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of personal data.
The launch of the NDI is a significant development in the field of digital identity and is expected to have far-reaching implications for both individuals and businesses in Bhutan. The use of a self-sovereign identity model puts individuals in control of their own identity, making it more secure and less vulnerable to data breaches and identity theft. This will improve trust and confidence in the use of digital services, making it easier for businesses to operate and individuals to access services