GOI Introduces ‘Entity Locker’ to Streamline Business Document Management

The government has introduced a pioneering digital platform called Entity Locker, expanding on the success of DigiLocker. This platform is designed to optimize the management and verification of business and organizational documents, creating a more efficient and secure digital governance framework.

Overview of Entity Locker
Entity Locker is a cloud-based, secure platform developed by the National eGovernance Division (NeGD) under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). It is tailored for various types of entities, including:

• Corporations
• Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)
• Trusts
• Startups
• Societies

The platform uses advanced technology to simplify document handling, verification, and secure sharing, thereby improving efficiency across sectors.

Key Features of Entity Locker

1. Integration with Government Systems
   Entity Locker seamlessly connects with multiple government and regulatory databases, such as the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA), Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN), and Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), ensuring quick access to important documents and reducing delays.
    
2. Consent-Based Information Sharing
   The platform supports a consent-driven approach, allowing entities to securely share information with relevant stakeholders while maintaining privacy and transparency.
    
3. Aadhaar-Authenticated Role-Based Access
   Using Aadhaar authentication, the platform enables role-specific access controls, ensuring that only authorized personnel can view sensitive documents.
    
4. Legally Valid Digital Signatures
   Documents uploaded to Entity Locker are accompanied by valid digital signatures, ensuring compliance with legal standards and verifying authenticity.
    
5. Secure Cloud Storage
   Entity Locker offers 10 GB of encrypted cloud storage for secure document management, protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access.
    

Alignment with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)

As part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Entity Locker supports the Union Budget 2024-25’s goals of enhancing digital governance and simplifying business operations. The platform helps reduce administrative burdens, accelerates processing times, and boosts operational efficiency for businesses.

Benefits of Entity Locker

1. Increased Efficiency and Transparency
   Entity Locker tracks document activities, improving transparency and accountability while eliminating delays and bolstering document security.
    
2. Improved Business Operations
   The platform supports various applications, such as:

• Vendor verification on procurement portals
• Accelerating MSME loan approvals
• Facilitating FSSAI compliance
• Streamlining GSTN, MCA registrations, and tendering processes
   

3. Simplified Annual Filings
   Corporate entities can use Entity Locker to ease the burden of annual filings, ensuring timely compliance with regulatory requirements.
    

Advanced Applications of Entity Locker
Entity Locker’s enhanced features make it crucial for:

• Procurement Portals: Streamlining vendor verification.
• MSME Sector: Fast-tracking loan approvals and fostering business ease.
• Regulatory Compliance: Assisting with FSSAI registrations and GST filings.
• Tendering: Simplifying document submission and application processes.