Colombo, February 15, 2026 – The Government of Sri Lanka is advancing its Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SLUDI) initiative, with engagement of a Master Systems Integrator (MSI) expected by mid-April 2026 to begin implementation of the national digital identity system.
Five Indian technology firms have been shortlisted to compete for the SLUDI contract, which aims to build a secure, inclusive digital ID platform as part of the country’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). According to the Ministry of Digital Economy, the MSI will oversee development, implementation, and maintenance of the system.
While the MSI selection process is being handled by the Government of India, Sri Lanka is also in the process of selecting a local Managed Service Provider (MSP) to operate the system once launched. Officials say the project’s initial rollout will include collection of biometric data — such as fingerprints, facial and iris scans — and that the first digital IDs are expected to be issued in the third quarter of 2026. Current National Identity Cards will remain valid throughout a 3–5 year transition period.
The new digital ID will be accessible through a mobile app (“e-Locker”) with options for biometric authentication, QR codes, and printable versions for physical use, reflecting the government’s push toward a modernised identity and public service infrastructure.
