Digi Yatra, a digital initiative by the Ministry of Civil Aviation in India, aims to streamline the passenger experience at airports through facial recognition technology while respecting privacy.
CEO Suresh Khadakbhavi leads the Digi Yatra Foundation, which emphasizes Self-Sovereign Identity to ensure user data remains with individuals.
Initially utilizing Aadhaar for identity checks, Digi Yatra transitioned to a selfie-based system, receiving support from Nandan Nilekani.
Digi Yatra Foundation was established in 2019, with operations finally launching at Delhi, Bangalore, and Varanasi airports in December 2020.
The platform uses top-notch facial recognition algorithms for security, employs liveness detection to prevent fraud, and stores data on users' devices, purging it within 24 hours.
Despite initial glitches and privacy concerns, such as those surrounding lighting conditions and facial recognition interference due to crowding, Digi Yatra continues to improve and expand.
Digi Yatra operates on a not-for-profit basis with plans for global expansion and integration with other travel entities like hotels, aiming to create a seamless travel experience.
While critics have raised privacy concerns, Digi Yatra emphasizes user voluntariness, minimal data collection, and adherence to global standards for security and efficiency.
The system has received positive feedback for its efficiency in reducing airport queues and enhancing passenger experience, with plans to scale to 130 airports.
By leveraging advanced technology, like cameras with adjustable angles for better face scanning, Digi Yatra aims to revolutionize airport travel while emphasizing user control over personal data.
Through its innovative approach and commitment to privacy and efficiency, Digi Yatra is paving the way for a smoother, safer, and more convenient airport travel experience in India and potentially worldwide.