MeitY Launches National Blockchain Framework to Enhance Digital Trust and Service Delivery

The newly introduced Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack offers Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS), designed to support various permissioned blockchain applications.

In a significant stride toward advancing digital governance in India, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has unveiled the Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack and a suite of blockchain-based initiatives. Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, spearheaded the launch, emphasizing the role of blockchain in fostering secure, transparent, and trusted digital service delivery for citizens.

The newly introduced Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack offers Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS), designed to support various permissioned blockchain applications. This geographically distributed infrastructure is hosted across multiple NIC Data Centers in Bhubaneswar, Pune, and Hyderabad, providing robust and scalable blockchain solutions.

NBFLite-Lightweight Blockchain Platform was also launched, aimed specifically at startups and academic institutions. This sandbox environment is tailored for rapid prototyping, research, and capacity building in blockchain technology, encouraging innovation and application development.

Praamaanik, another key initiative, is an innovative blockchain-enabled solution for verifying the origin of mobile applications, further enhancing the security and authenticity of digital platforms.

The National Blockchain Framework (NBF), a cornerstone of MeitY's vision, is designed to create trusted digital platforms that promote research, application development, and secure service delivery. The framework incorporates a comprehensive technology stack with functionalities such as Distributed Infrastructure, Smart Contracts, API Gateway, and Security, Privacy, and Interoperability measures.

During the launch event, Shri S. Krishnan highlighted the transformative potential of the National Blockchain Framework in ensuring security and transparency for citizen-centric applications. He called for stakeholders to position India as a global leader in blockchain technology, driving economic growth, social development, and digital empowerment through widespread adoption of these solutions.

Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary of MeitY, emphasized blockchain's role in revolutionizing governance by enhancing the transparency, efficiency, and accountability of public services. He urged for the scaling of blockchain applications across various states and departments to maximize their impact.

Smt Sunita Verma, Scientist G and Group Coordinator for R&D in Electronics & IT at MeitY, outlined the NBF’s goals, which include addressing challenges such as the need for skilled manpower, vendor lock-in, and research concerns related to security, interoperability, and performance.

Shri Magesh E, Director General of C-DAC, reiterated the collaborative efforts behind the NBF, noting the consortium's success in generating patents and research publications that contribute to the advancement of blockchain technology in India.

Ms. P R Lakshmi Eswari, Centre Head of C-DAC Hyderabad, provided insights into the technical features of the NBF, particularly the Praamaanik solution, which enhances the verification process of mobile app origins using blockchain technology.

The launch of these initiatives marks a significant milestone in India's journey toward becoming a global leader in blockchain technology, with a strong focus on secure and transparent digital governance.