Blockchain and Decentralized Digital File Management for Transparent and Inclusive Governance in India

Governance in India faces persistent challenges of transparency, accountability, and accessibility across federal, state, and local levels. Traditional file and records management systems often suffer from inefficiencies, tampering risks, and limited inclusivity due to linguistic barriers. This research proposes a Digital File and Records Management System (DFRMS) that leverages blockchain (Hyperledger Fabric) and decentralized storage (IPFS) to redefine public administration transparency. The system integrates MeriPehchaan single sign-on for identity-bound access, automated redaction pipelines for privacy, and multilingual dashboards for inclusivity. Comparative analysis with Estonia, Georgia, and Dubai demonstrates global feasibility. The blueprint aligns with India’s IT Act, RTI Act, and Digital India Mission, offering a scalable, citizen-centric governance framework.