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In a landmark event held at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), the Government of India introduced the Vishvasya-Blockchain Technology Stack. This initiative aims to offer Blockchain-as-a-Service (BaaS) with a geographically distributed infrastructure, tailored to support a wide range of permissioned blockchain applications.
Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, led the launch, which also showcased several key innovations: NBFLite, a lightweight blockchain platform; Praamaanik, a blockchain-enabled solution for mobile app origin verification; and the National Blockchain Portal. These developments are integral to the National Blockchain Framework (NBF), designed to foster secure, transparent, and efficient digital services for citizens.
The National Blockchain Framework is built on a robust technology stack that includes distributed infrastructure, core framework functionality, smart contracts, an API gateway, and comprehensive security measures. Hosted across NIC data centres in Bhubaneswar, Pune, and Hyderabad, the NBF supports two permissioned blockchain platforms and is scalable to accommodate future advancements.
One of the standout features of the NBF is NBFLite, a blockchain sandbox platform crafted for startups and academic institutions. This platform facilitates rapid prototyping, research, and development, enabling innovators to test and refine blockchain applications. The creation of these technologies was a collaborative effort involving prominent organisations such as C-DAC, NIC, IDRBT Hyderabad, IIT Hyderabad, IIIT Hyderabad and SETS Chennai.
Shri S. Krishnan stressed that the National Blockchain Framework is a major step in enhancing digital trust and service delivery. He highlighted India’s goal of becoming a global blockchain leader, using these advancements to drive economic growth, social development, and digital empowerment, and stressed the need for global adoption of these solutions.
Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary of MeitY, highlighted blockchain’s transformative potential for governance, highlighting its ability to boost transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public services. He called for scaling NBF applications across states and departments and encouraged exploring new applications and innovations within the NBF stack.
Smt Sunita Verma, Scientist G and Group Coordinator for R&D in Electronics & IT at MeitY outlined the objectives behind the NBF. She pointed out that the framework aims to address several challenges, including the need for skilled manpower to build blockchain applications, vendor lock-in issues, and research challenges related to security, interoperability, and performance.
Shri Magesh E, Director General of C-DAC, discussed the NBF’s consortium-based approach to overcoming research challenges and leveraging blockchain technology. He highlighted the initiative’s success in generating numerous patents and research publications, furthering the development of blockchain applications in collaboration with government entities.
Ms P. R. Lakshmi Eswari, Centre Head at CDAC Hyderabad, elaborated on the technical features of the National Blockchain Framework and introduced Praamaanik, the blockchain-enabled solution for mobile app origin verification. This solution is designed to enhance the security and authenticity of mobile applications, contributing to a more trustworthy digital ecosystem.
Blockchain technology is becoming a key driver in India’s development, enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency across sectors. In line with this, the University of Wollongong India (UOW India) has partnered with a global tech leader to advance its education in emerging technologies, including blockchain. This alliance integrates advanced tech training into the curriculum, offering theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience, internships, and access to an online platform with course materials and expert interactions. By aligning with industry demands, UOW India aims to enhance student readiness for the evolving job market and boost global competitiveness.
The Vishvasya Blockchain Technology Stack and its associated components represent a significant advancement in India’s digital infrastructure. By integrating these technologies, the government aims to build a more secure, transparent, and efficient digital environment for its citizens, while positioning India at the forefront of global blockchain innovation.
