Revolutionising India’s travel experience through the Digi Yatra biometric programme
Since 2022, India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security have driven the Digi Yatra programme: a digital transformation initiative focused on enhancing domestic air travel. Join Suresh Khadakbhavi and Shanti John as they share their observations on the programme’s vision and key challenges, operational feedback, and way forward.
Register now to watch live and ask your questions in real time!
Air travel is booming, and airports are under pressure to move passengers faster, more efficiently, and more safely than ever before. In India alone, air passenger traffic reached 220.4 million in FY 2024, up 15% from the previous year. The Digi Yatra programme is revolutionising the journey, using biometric identity management, facial recognition, and digital facilitation to make airport experiences seamless and frictionless.
Join IDEMIA and the Digi Yatra Foundation to hear how this groundbreaking initiative has already enabled over 60 million domestic journeys and 14 million app downloads, while maintaining the highest standards of security.
Discover how Digi Yatra is reducing wait times, smoothing operational bottlenecks, and proving that technology and collaboration can transform the passenger experience from check-in to boarding.
This webinar will give you practical insights into how airports worldwide can harness innovation to enhance efficiency, safety, and passenger satisfaction. See first-hand how a truly modern, digital-first approach can reshape the way airports operate.
Key Learning Points:
- Get insights from Digi Yatra’s success story and the challenges that were met.
- Learn more about how facial recognition and identity management technologies support airports’ digital transformation.
- Get inspired by an innovative approach to explore new ideas for your digital transformation.
PANELLISTS
Suresh Khadakbhavi, CEO at Digiyatra Foundation
Mr. Suresh Khadakbhavi is the Chief Executive Officer of Digi Yatra Foundation, a pioneering organization transforming the landscape of air travel in India. The foundation’s flagship initiative, the Digi Yatra Service, is built on a decentralized ecosystem that leverages Self-Sovereign Identity (SSI) and single-token face biometric technology to offer passengers a seamless and hassle-free travel experience. As CEO, Suresh leads the foundation’s operations, business development, and strategic direction, bringing visionary leadership to its mission of digital innovation in aviation.
With over 20 years of professional experience, Suresh holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication from Karnataka University. His career spans significant roles across the Telecom, IT, and Aviation sectors, giving him a well-rounded expertise in telecommunications, digital transformation, and strategic IT leadership. Under his leadership, the Digi Yatra Foundation has emerged as the driving force behind India’s National Air Travel Programme, widely known as Digi Yatra. This groundbreaking program uses facial biometrics as a single token to streamline airport processes, significantly enhancing both passenger convenience and security. Suresh’s strategic foresight and technical acumen have helped position Digi Yatra as a trailblazer in the aviation sector, setting new standards for efficiency and passenger satisfaction.
A passionate advocate for digital transformation, Suresh envisions a dynamic future for India’s aviation and technology sectors. He is committed to scaling Digi Yatra’s impact, both nationally and globally, through innovation and collaboration. Outside of his professional endeavors, Suresh enjoys playing cricket and lawn tennis, and is an avid reader on topics of innovation and digital transformation. His personal interests reflect his commitment to continuous learning, which he seamlessly integrates into his leadership style to foster sustainable growth.
Shanti John, Vice President of Sales, Asia at IDEMIA Public Security – Travel & Transport
LinkedIn Profile Shanti is a seasoned and dynamic leader in the Airports and Transport sector with over 25 years’ experience across Asia Pacific. She is renowned for expertise in airports, airlines, and government border management technology and trusted by governments and airport operators. In her current position as Vice President of Sales (Asia) at IDEMIA, she leads a high-performing team, drives strategic partnerships and delivers innovative biometric solutions that transform travel for secure and seamless traveler journeys. She is a trusted partner to Governments and Airports in their digital transformation journeys and advocates for advanced technologies such as biometrics, self-service/automated solutions and AI to solve business challenges and improve the traveler experience. A Brand Ambassador, frequent speaker at ACI, IATA and Future Travel Experience events and recognized for securing major deals and shaping regional growth. Shanti is ACI AMPAP-certified and a thought leader who believes in aligning innovation with measurable business results.
FAQs
Is the webinar free?
Yes – there is no charge to watch the webinar, either live or on-demand.
When will the webinar take place?
The webinar will be taking place on 16 December 2025, at 09:00 GMT, UK time.
Can I watch the webinar later?
The webinar will be available to watch on-demand shortly after the live broadcast takes place.
What are the benefits of attending live?
During the live webinar, you will be able to pose questions to the speakers, which will then be answered during the live Q&A session at the end of the webinar.
How long will the webinar be?
The live webinar will last for up to sixty minutes
What do I need to watch this webinar?
All you need is a computer with an internet connection. It is advised to use headphones where possible for your own comfort.
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