Sri Lanka is set to invite bids for a software integrator for the MOSIP digital identity system funded by India. The project aims to provide unique identifiers, ensuring compliance with local laws, as user tests for the e-NIC proceed.
In a significant move towards establishing a digital identity framework, Sri Lanka is gearing up to solicit expressions of interest for a software integrator for the Modular Open-Source Identity Platform (MOSIP). This system, crucial for developing the country’s digital identity program, aims to streamline how citizens access public and private services. Waruna Dhanapala, Secretary of the Ministry of Digitalisation, confirmed that the tendering process is expected to favor Indian suppliers, as the funding originates from India.
Dhanapala highlighted during an interview with Biometric Update that the MOSIP initiative has seen the involvement of a technical team who recently visited Sri Lanka. Currently, the MOSIP marketplace lists 37 system integrators, and Sri Lanka is working to finalize its foundational identification system by August. This system, which will provide unique identifiers for its citizenry, is tailored to comply with local laws and privacy norms, showing a commitment to secure data management.
The MOSIP framework is designed to assure efficient data handling—collecting, validating, de-duplicating, and securely storing both demographic and biometric information. This data is vital in issuing foundational IDs and facilitating authentication services based on the unique IDs assigned to individuals, as Dhanapala described.
Having already completed a pilot project with MOSIP in October 2020—collaborating with the Government of Sri Lanka and the Information and Communication Technology Agency (ICTA)—the groundwork is solidifying for a larger rollout. The financial backing from India will also cover expenses linked to the Electronic National Identity Card (e-NIC).
Testing phases are currently underway for the e-NIC, which aims to enhance user security and integrate the Unique Digital ID scheme. This integration would assign distinct ID numbers and centralize multiple identification types while also capturing vital information like birth certificates and tax IDs. The integration seems poised to simplify identity verification processes for Sri Lankans in the future.
Sri Lanka is preparing to call for expressions of interest to secure a software integrator for MOSIP, a key component in its digital identity program. With funding from India, the implementation will enhance service access and data security. As user testing for the e-NIC continues, the integration of digital IDs promises to streamline identity management significantly.
Original Source: www.biometricupdate.com
