India's biometric ID system Aadhaar has provided over a billion people with digital IDs, and changed how the country's government provides services and subsidies. But opponents of the system say that Aadhaar erodes people’s privacy. Nandan Nilekani, the chief architect of the platform, joins the CGD podcast to address these concerns, discuss the platform's progress, and share his vision for future uses of "societal platforms."

What Can India's Biometric ID System Do for Development? – Aadhaar Architect Nandan Nilekani

International development experts share their ideas on smarter policies for a better world. Hosted by the Center for Global Development.

News & Politics

Government & Organizations

Non-Profit

National

Regional

Local

Host Javier Guzman launches Season 2 with reflections on global progress on preparedness since the pandemic, then speaks with H.E. Dr. Jean Kaseya of Africa CDC about how Africa CDC is translating lessons from COVID-19 into stronger, more resilient systems.

Pandemic Proof: Expanding Africa CDC’s Role in Preparedness

CGD's Gyude Moore speaks with Nick O’Donohoe from British International Investment and Frank Aswani from the African Venture Philanthropy Alliance about balancing local and international focus, the impact of a "funding winter," and how the public and private sectors can fill the financing gap for budding entrepreneurs across Africa.

CGD Podcast: Unlocking Private Investment in Africa with Nick O’Donohoe and Frank Aswani

Is there a relationship between climate change and conflict? Gyude speaks to Dr. Edward (Ted) Miguel of University of California Berkley about the impact of rising temperatures, extreme droughts, and floods on competition for resources, and how governments can respond to climate change’s compounding impact in fragile regions.

Lagos to Mombasa: How Does Climate Impact Conflict?

CGD's Eeshani Kandpal speaks with the Interamerican Development Bank's Ana María Ibáñez about her recent report on women economists in Latin America, the reflection of cultural norms in education and the workplace, and the importance of role models and mentors in shaping expectations.

CGD Podcast: Supporting Women Economists in Latin America with Ana María Ibáñez

Ahmed Saeed of Allied Climate Partners and formerly the Asian Development Bank joins CGD’s Karen Mathiasen and Clemence Landers for a conversation on his organization's new approach to blended finance, how to bridge the private and public sectors more effectively, and how to balance climate mitigation with traditional development goals. 

What Can India's Biometric ID System Do for Development? – Aadhaar Architect Nandan Nilekani

Download our free app to listen on your phone