Lucknow University has announced plans to begin issuing official: The wider industry impact

Lucknow University has announced plans to begin issuing official student identity cards through the Government of India’s DigiLocker platform, starting with the academic session 2026-27. This initiative aligns with the Digital India Mission and supports the state’s efforts towards technology-driven governance. The move aims to streamline the process of student identification and enhance digital accessibility for university students.

With the move, the university will act as an Issuing Authority on DigiLocker, and officials said it will become the first state university in the country to provide digitally authenticated student ID cards directly on the platform. Officials said the linking of DigiLocker IDs with APAAR under the ‘One Nation, One Student ID’ framework will consolidate student identity credentials and academic records on a single secure platform, reducing the possibility of forged or fake identity cards. The facility will be extended to students of both university campuses. The digital ID will automatically become inactive once a student completes the course. The university also expects the initiative to support its green campus goals by cutting the use of PVC cards and lamination materials. Officials noted that DigiLocker documents are recognised under the Information Technology Act, giving the digital identity cards full legal validity.

Under the new arrangement, students will receive their authorised digital identity cards in their DigiLocker accounts immediately after completing admission and fee payment formalities. To access the service, students will need a registered APAAR ID (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry), which the university has made mandatory to ensure smooth implementation.