Campus Times | Lucknow 

Lucknow University is set to take a major step towards digitalising student services by issuing official identity cards through the Government of Indias DigiLocker platform from the 2026-27 academic session. With this move, the university has become the first state university in the country to introduce DigiLocker-based digital ID cards for its students.

Under the new system, Lucknow University will function as the issuing authority, allowing students to access their verified identity credentials digitally through their DigiLocker accounts. A registered Academic Bank of Credits (ABC)/APAAR ID will be mandatory for students to avail themselves of the facility.

University Vice-Chancellor Prof. J.P. Saini described the initiative as an important step towards advancing the objectives of the Digital India programme and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The move is aimed at making student services more accessible, secure and technology-driven while reducing dependence on physical documentation.

Digital ID available anytime, anywhere

Once issued, the student identity card will remain accessible through the DigiLocker mobile application, eliminating the need to carry a physical card at all times. Students will also no longer have to undergo lengthy procedures for obtaining replacement cards in case of loss, damage or theft.

The digital credential will feature a dynamic QR code, enabling its authenticity to be verified quickly whenever required. Since the ID will be digitally issued and authenticated through the official system, it is expected to provide students with a secure and verifiable form of institutional identification.

Direct integration with university database

The university plans to integrate its student database with the DigiLocker system. Following completion of admission formalities and fee payment, the digital identity card will be made available in the students DigiLocker account.

Linking the ID with the students APAAR credentials will also help connect academic records and identity information on a secure digital ecosystem. The university expects the system to strengthen verification mechanisms and significantly reduce the possibility of forged or duplicate identity cards.

Push towards a greener campus

The initiative is also expected to contribute to Lucknow Universitys sustainability goals. Moving from conventional plastic and laminated identity cards to digital credentials will reduce the consumption of plastic cards and lamination material.

The university sees the DigiLocker initiative as part of a broader effort to make its administrative processes paperless, faster and more transparent, while giving students round-the-clock access to their verified institutional identity.