DIGIPIN Explained: 10-digit code that could change how you get deliveries

In a move set to revolutionise how addresses work in India, the Department of Posts has rolled out DIGIPIN, a new digital addressing system that assigns a unique 10-character alphanumeric code to every precise location in the country.

Launched in collaboration with IIT Hyderabad and ISRO’s National Remote Sensing Centre, DIGIPIN is designed to bring accuracy and simplicity to how addresses are created, shared, and used across public and private sectors.

What exactly is DIGIPIN?

Unlike traditional PIN codes, which cover large areas and often lead to confusion in deliveries, DIGIPIN works on latitude and longitude. It breaks India into small 4m by 4m grids, giving each square a specific, digital identity.

Think of it as a digital tag for your house or shop, easy to use, precise, and not linked to any personal data. According to the Department of Posts, this new code simply identifies a location, without storing or linking any individual’s personal details.

How to get your DIGIPIN?

To generate your DIGIPIN, visit the Know Your DIGIPIN portal, locate your residence on the map, and follow the steps to create your code.

Users will need a device with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) capability to capture the exact coordinates. Based on this data, a DIGIPIN is generated instantly.

The postal department is also working on a dedicated mobile app for easier access in the near future.

Why is DIGIPIN a game-changer?

• It can geolocate pinpointedly to 4 by 4 metres.
• No personal data is stored-only location.
• Uses operate offline since the source code is published. 
• Perfect for e-commerce, government, or emergency services.

Champions the view of Address as a Service (AaaS), whereby one can expect persons, business, and government agencies to maintain reliable management of address data.

Will DIGIPIN be next address for you?

No. Your usual street name, house number, and city stay as-is. DIGIPIN simply acts as an extra layer of digital precision for locations that are either hard to find or absent clear address definition.

Where else can DIGIPIN be applied?

The system is currently designed for India’s geographical limits by covering the range:

Longitude: 63.5°E to 99.5°E

Latitude: 2.5°N to 38.5°N

This means Indian terrestrial as well as maritime boundaries.

With DIGIPIN, India is a member of the global efforts to build smarter and reliable location systems, benefiting almost everything, from online shopping to public service delivery while protecting your privacy.