Draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules in India

• Union Electronics and Information Technology Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw proposes a child verication system in the draft Digital Personal Data Protection Rules.

• The system aims to prevent minors from using age-restricted online services without parental consent.

• Vaishnaw argues that no universal solution exists for child verication, referring to tokenisation of identity documents as a potential solution.

• The proposed rules require platforms in India to verify every new applicant’s age using a “token” that reliably confirms their age or their parent or guardian’s age.

• The token can be deleted after its purpose is fulfilled, as per Vaishnaw.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizes the draft’s aim to safeguard personal data and drive growth and inclusivity.