India’s digital transformation is no longer just a vision, it’s happening right in our hands. From booking flights and filing taxes to storing essential documents and investing in government bonds, official apps launched by the Government of India are simplifying everyday life for citizens. Here’s a look at seven must-have government apps that bring convenience, transparency, and efficiency to your fingertips, a true reflection of a Digital India in motion.
1. DigiYatra
What it is: A digital travel credential app launched by the Digi Yatra Foundation under the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) that uses facial recognition so you can pass through airport entry, security and boarding with minimal document checks.
Why you should have it: If you fly domestically in India, this app can reduce queuing and speed up the process, your face becomes your boarding pass.
2. AIS for Taxpayers
What it is: A mobile application provided by the Income Tax Department that lets taxpayers view their Annual Information Statement (AIS), Taxpayer Information Summary (TIS) and provide feedback on the data.
Why you should have it: It gives you visibility into what the tax department has recorded (TDS, dividends, etc.), helping you verify before filing returns making your tax life simpler and less risky.
3. RBI Retail Direct
What it is: A platform from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) enabling retail investors to open a “Retail Direct Gilt (RDG)” account and invest in government securities (G-Secs), Treasury Bills and Sovereign Gold Bonds.
Why you should have it: If you want a safe, direct route to invest in government bonds without brokers, this app/panel gives you access useful for savings and diversification.
4. RailOne
What it is: A “super app” launched by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) on behalf of Indian Railways integrating ticket booking, live train tracking, grievances, e-catering and more.
Why you should have it: Travelling by train? This single app combines many services you’d otherwise use multiple apps or websites for simplifying your journey.
5. mParivahan
What it is: Official app for storing your driving licence (DL) and vehicle registration certificate (RC) digitally, recognized by Indian traffic authorities.
Why you should have it: Avoid carrying physical documents, and in case of checks or travelling, you’ll have digital credentials handy safer and more convenient.
6. DigiLocker
What it is: A government-approved cloud storage app/service under MeitY (Ministry of Electronics & IT) where you can store verified digital documents (like licence, certificates) and get them issued digitally by agencies.
Why you should have it: Helps you access important documents anytime, present them digitally for services, and reduce dependency on physical copies.
7. UMANG
What it is: Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) – a mega app that provides multiple government services (Centre, States) on one platform: payments, certificates, schemes, etc.
Why you should have it: One stop shop for many government services instead of multiple apps; saves time and gives you access to both central and local services digitally.