What is digipin?
Official Website: dac.indiapost.gov.in/mypincode/menu
Documentation: https://www.indiapost.gov.in/VAS/Pages/digipin.aspx
Introduction
DIGIPIN, or Digital Postal Index Number, is a standardized, geo-coded, grid-based digital address system officially launched by India’s Department of Posts. It uses a 10-digit alphanumeric code based on geographic coordinates to uniquely identify locations across India with pinpoint accuracy. This system is designed to revolutionize location identification, especially in areas with ambiguous or incomplete addresses, and to enhance various public and private services.
Purpose and Benefits
The primary purpose of DIGIPIN is to establish a nationwide, standardized addressing system that simplifies location identification. It aims to enhance:
- Public Service Delivery: Ensures services reach intended recipients efficiently.
- Emergency Response: Facilitates faster responses with precise location data.
- Logistics Efficiency: Improves last-mile delivery and route planning, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
- Geospatial Governance: Supports digital transformation through GIS-based digitalization.
Technical Details
DIGIPIN’s technical framework includes:
- Code Structure: 10-digit alphanumeric code derived from latitude and longitude.
- Grid System: Divides India into grids of approximately 4x4 meters, with a hierarchical structure from Level-1 to Level-10.
- Properties: Low computational complexity, specific to Indian context, covers maritime areas, and is permanent.
An example is the DIGIPIN for Dak Bhawan: 39J 49L L8T4.
Development and Collaboration
DIGIPIN was developed in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and NRSC-ISRO. It is an open-source system, with its code available on GitHub.
Recent Developments and Public Engagement
On June 2, 2025, the Department of Posts unveiled two digital platforms: Know Your DIGIPIN and Know Your PIN Code. These platforms are part of the initiative to modernize India’s addressing system and enhance geospatial governance.
DIGIPIN is now available for public use, with the final version released after incorporating public feedback from the beta version launched in July 2024. Users can access their DIGIPIN through the Know Your DIGIPIN platform.
The Know Your PIN Code platform modernizes the traditional six-digit PIN Code system, providing geo-fenced PIN Code boundary data on the Open Government Data Platform.
The government plans to roll out DIGIPIN nationwide by the end of 2025, with the initiative supervised by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Privacy and Accessibility
DIGIPIN does not store private address data and operates fully in the public domain, ensuring no privacy concerns. It is accessible to all, with resources available for download, including technical documents and source code.
Comparative Analysis with Traditional PIN Code
| Feature | Traditional PIN Code | DIGIPIN |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 6-digit numeric code | 10-digit alphanumeric code |
| Basis | Geographic area identification | Precise geographic coordinates |
| Precision | Covers broader areas | 4x4 meter grid |
| Use Case | Traditional mail delivery | Enhanced logistics, emergency response, GIS |
| Open-Source | No | Yes |
| Development | Established since 1972 | Launched in 2025 with modern tech |
Impact and Future Prospects
DIGIPIN enhances India’s geospatial structure, supporting applications in emergency rescue, national disaster management, and public service delivery. Its adoption is expected to be nationwide, with integration into various workflows across ministries and state governments. The system is set to make India a global leader in geospatial technology by 2035, aligning with the National Geospatial Policy 2022.
Conclusion
DIGIPIN is a pioneering initiative that combines geospatial technology with digital infrastructure to address the challenges of location identification in India. It is set to revolutionize service delivery and governance, making every location digitally locatable and serviceable.
