The integration of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) into public service delivery is transforming social protection systems worldwide by improving both inclusivity and administrative efficiency. Governments are increasingly utilizing digital identity systems, interoperable payment infrastructures, and consent-based data governance frameworks to enhance the delivery of social benefits. Across countries with varying levels of digital maturity, including Australia, Brazil, and several low- and middle-income economies, growing policy attention is being directed toward the development of scalable, secure, and trustworthy welfare delivery mechanisms enabled by DPI.
India’s implementation of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programme since 2013 represents a significant example within the broader DPI ecosystem due to its potential to streamline welfare administration, reduce leakages, and expand inclusion. Built upon Aadhaar-based digital identification and supported by interoperable payment systems and public financial management architecture, DBT has transformed the scale, speed, and monitoring of welfare transfers across more than 320 schemes. Although India’s model has emerged as an important reference point in global discussions on DPI-enabled welfare systems, it also illustrates the complex institutional and governance challenges associated with large-scale digital infrastructures.
