API Setu — India's Open API Platform
API Setu — India’s Open API Platform What is API Setu? API Setu is MeitY’s open API platform that provides secure, standardized APIs for government and private sector services. Think of it as a “digital marketplace” where developers can access government services programmatically—enabling innovation while maintaining security. How API Setu Works Architecture API Gateway: Single entry point for all services Authentication: OAuth 2.0, API keys Rate Limiting: Prevents abuse Monitoring: Real-time usage tracking Process Organization Registration: Business/entity verification API Subscription: Select needed APIs Integration: Developer uses documentation Testing: Sandbox environment provided Production: Live API access Available APIs (2024) Identity & Verification eKYC API: Aadhaar-based identity verification eSign API: Digital document signing DigiLocker API: Document access Government Services Vehicle Registration: RC, permit verification GST Data: Tax return information PF Status: EPFO data access Passport Status: Application tracking Financial Services Bank Account Verification: VIA IFSC/Bank code GST Return Filing: Integrated filing MSME Registration: Udyam verification Statistics (2024) APIs Available: 8,000+ Registered Developers: 50,000+ Daily API Calls: 50+ million Organizations: 10,000+ Use Cases Banking & Finance Instant KYC: Verify customer identity Loan Processing: Auto-verify documents Account Opening: Reduced paperwork E-Commerce GST Verification: Validate business legitimacy Delivery Address: PIN code serviceability Document Storage: DigiLocker integration Government Service Delivery: Multi-channel access Data Sharing: Across departments Citizen Services: Single window access For Developers Getting Started Register: https://apisetu.gov.in Documentation: API specifications provided Sandbox: Free testing environment Production: Apply for live access Technical Requirements Authentication: API key + OAuth token Rate Limits: Vary by API SLA: 99.9% uptime commitment Benefits For Government Efficiency: Reduced manual processing Transparency: Audit trails Innovation: Private sector builds on APIs For Citizens Faster Services: Instant verification Less Friction: No repetitive submissions Digital Ecosystem: Unified experience For Businesses Cost Reduction: Automated processes Compliance: Regulatory adherence Innovation: Build new services Privacy & Security Data Protection Consent-Based: User must authorize Minimal Data: Only necessary information shared Encryption: TLS 1.3 for data in transit Audit Logs: Every access logged Regulatory Compliance Aadhaar Act: Data handled per UIDAI rules DPDP Act: Personal data protection IT Act: Legal framework for e-governance Challenges Awareness: Many businesses don’t know APIs exist Technical Skills: Need developer resources Data Quality: Varying data accuracy across sources Integration Complexity: Legacy systems Prime References API Setu Portal - Official platform MeitY - Parent ministry Developer Portal - Documentation This 101 guide is part of DPIWatch’s citizen education initiative. Last updated: March 2026. ...