New ID to reach citizens by Q3 2026, powering digital economy
The Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) project, a key initiative to modernise the country’s digital infrastructure supported by a Rs. 10.4 billion grant from the Government of India is scheduled for launch by the third quarter (Q3) of 2026,
The system is built on India’s Modular Open-Source Identity Platform (MOSIP), an open-source framework also used in countries like the Philippines and Ethiopia.
The SL-UDI will incorporate biometric data, including facial, fingerprint, and iris scans, to provide a unique identity. It will enable digital-first service delivery, including a mobile app known as the “e-Locker”.
While the initial setup is supported by Indian expertise with five Indian firms (Infosys, TCS, Protean, RailTel and BEL) shortlisted, the system will be managed and operated by a local Sri Lankan Service Provider (MSP), a senior official of the Department for Registration of Persons told the Sunday Times Business
The data will remain under the control of the Sri Lankan government, he said, adding that the tender process for the Master Systems Integrator (MSI) is in progress, with the final contract award expected by early 2026.
The project is viewed as a foundational component for Sri Lanka’s digital economy, aiming for 2030, and involves the integration of existing e-NIC, biometric and demographic data.
Expansion of 4G/5G coverage and the introduction of “Virtual Special Economic Zones” to promote tech exports were among the other key initiatives of the development of the country’s digital economy landscape
Approximately 13.9 million individuals were using the internet in Sri Lanka by the end of 2025, representing a penetration rate of roughly 59.7 per cent of the total population, according to Global digital report of datareportal.
Mobile connections are massive, with over 30.3 million active connections, equating to 130 per cent of the total population, driven by high multiple-SIM ownership.
Over 91 per cent of mobile connections are considered “broadband” (3G, 4G, or 5G), with speeds showing significant improvement; median mobile speeds rose to over 45 Mbps, and fixed broadband to over 31 Mbps.
It has been revealed that there are approximately 9 million active social media users while Facebook remained the dominant platform, with 9 million users.
Despite high mobile penetration, approximately 40 per cent of the population (9.37 million) remains “offline” or has low, inconsistent internet usage.
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