Digital Divide: Why Airlines Trust DigiLocker, But Hotels Hesitate

A recent statement by Edelweiss CEO Radhika Gupta has reignited the debate about DigiLocker, the Indian government's digital document repository. Gupta questioned why hotels remain wary of accepting DigiLocker documents while airlines readily embrace them for passenger verification. This discrepancy throws light on the varied adoption of digital technology across different sectors and the challenges associated with transitioning to paperless verification.

DigiLocker: Convenience at Your Fingertips:

Launched in 2015, DigiLocker enables citizens to store and share digital copies of important documents like driving licenses, PAN cards, and educational certificates. Its integration with Aadhaar further simplifies verification processes, eliminating the need for carrying physical documents.

Soaring Skies: DigiLocker Takes Flight:

The aviation industry has been a frontrunner in DigiLocker adoption. Airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, and even Edelweiss itself accept DigiLocker documents for boarding verification. This streamlined process saves time for passengers and airlines alike, minimizing the risk of document discrepancies and reducing queues at check-in counters.

Grounding Concerns: Hotels Hold Back:

Despite its success in the aviation sector, DigiLocker hasn't gained similar traction in the hotel industry. Many hotels remain hesitant to accept DigiLocker documents for guest identification, often citing concerns about authenticity and potential for misuse. Additionally, technical limitations and lack of awareness among hotel staff could be contributing factors.

Bridging the Gap: Addressing Hotel Apprehensions:

To bridge the gap, several steps can be taken:

• Enhanced Security Measures: Strengthening DigiLocker's security features and addressing concerns about document forgery could build trust among hotels.
• Technical Collaboration: Collaborating with hotels to integrate DigiLocker seamlessly into their existing guest management systems could ease operational challenges.
• Awareness Campaigns: Educating hotel staff about DigiLocker's benefits and functionalities could encourage smoother adoption.

Beyond Convenience: A Broader Vision:

The debate around DigiLocker in the travel industry goes beyond mere convenience. It highlights the broader challenges of digital transformation in India, including infrastructure limitations, cybersecurity concerns, and varying levels of technological preparedness across different sectors. Addressing these challenges is crucial for reaping the full benefits of digital initiatives like DigiLocker and creating a truly paperless society.