Context:
The Department of Posts has introduced two new digital platforms — ‘Know Your DIGIPIN’ and ‘Know Your PIN Code’ — aimed at modernizing India’s addressing and geospatial systems in alignment with the National Geospatial Policy 2022.
DIGIPIN Portal
Ministry Involved:
Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications
Objective:
To enhance digital address accuracy through geo-coded grids, thereby improving last-mile service delivery across the country.
Developed In Collaboration With:
IIT Hyderabad and the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), ISRO
Key Features:
- Geo-Coded Addressing:
Each DIGIPIN is mapped to a specific latitude-longitude grid, enabling precise and high-resolution location identification.
- Address-as-a-Service (AaaS):
Provides standardized, secure, and easily accessible address solutions for government entities, private organizations, and individual users.
- Open-Source Platform:
Technical documentation and source code are available on GitHub, encouraging innovation and broader public engagement.
- GIS Integration:
Seamlessly incorporates Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities to support logistics, disaster management, and e-governance initiatives.
- Inclusivity:
Promotes digital inclusion by offering consistent address identifiers, especially benefiting rural and remote regions.
PIN Code Portal
Ministry Involved:
Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications
Objective:
To modernize India’s traditional six-digit PIN Code system using geospatial technology and GNSS-based mapping.
Key Features:
- Geo-Fencing of PIN Codes:
Digitally defines and maps the boundaries of over 1.5 lakh PIN Codes, significantly enhancing location accuracy.
- Location-Based PIN Retrieval:
Allows users to determine the correct PIN Code through real-time GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) data.
- Public Feedback Mechanism:
Empowers citizens to contribute suggestions, helping to refine and update the PIN Code database continuously.
- Open Data Access:
Geo-referenced PIN Code data is made publicly available through the Open Government Data (OGD) Platform.
- Support for Delivery and Services:
Improves efficiency in e-commerce, emergency response, and postal logistics by providing precise regional mapping.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)