India takes another step towards strengthening digital privacy, creating new opportunities for technology businesses and redefining how personal data is managed.
Introduction: In the Digital Economy, Data Is Power
Every time we download an application, open a bank account, shop online or subscribe to a digital service, we share personal information.
But have we ever wondered how many organisations have access to our data, why they need it and how easily we can withdraw our permission?
In today’s digital economy, personal data has become a valuable business asset. However, the growing use of personal information also raises important questions about privacy, transparency and accountability.
Recognising this challenge, India is moving towards a more structured digital data protection ecosystem through the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023.
A significant step in this direction has now arrived.
What Is India’s New Consent Manager Framework?
On 13 November 2026, the registration framework for Consent Managers under the DPDP Rules, 2025 came into effect.
On 14 November 2026, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) announced the launch of an online registration portal.
A Consent Manager is an entity registered with the Data Protection Board of India that provides individuals with a platform to give, manage, review and withdraw consent for the processing of their personal data.
In simple terms, imagine having a single digital platform through which you can manage your data-sharing permissions across multiple participating organisations rather than dealing separately with every platform.
That is the central idea behind the Consent Manager framework.
Who Can Become a Consent Manager?
The framework also creates a new business opportunity.
Eligible companies must satisfy prescribed conditions, including:
- Incorporation in India.
- Minimum net worth of ₹2 crore.
- Adequate technical, operational and financial capacity.
- Sound financial condition and management.
- Compliance with applicable interoperability and data protection requirements.
Eligible companies can apply through the registration portal, subject to assessment and registration by the Board.
This creates an opportunity for technology companies, digital infrastructure providers and entrepreneurs to develop specialised consent management solutions.
Why Does This Matter for Businesses?
The framework is more than a privacy-related development. It could influence how businesses design their digital operations.
1. Banking and Financial Services
Banks, fintech companies and financial platforms frequently rely on personal information to provide services. Transparent consent management can strengthen customer trust.
2. E-Commerce and Digital Platforms
Online businesses can benefit from clearer consent processes and improved transparency in handling customer information.
3. Technology Startups
Consent management itself could emerge as a specialised technology and compliance business segment.
4. Corporate Governance
Data protection is increasingly becoming a matter of board-level attention, risk management and organisational accountability.
The Opportunity for Finance Professionals and Auditors
The growing importance of data governance also creates new professional responsibilities.
Finance professionals, cost accountants and auditors can contribute through:
- Reviewing data-related internal controls.
- Evaluating compliance costs and associated risks.
- Assessing technology investments in privacy infrastructure.
- Reviewing vendor and service-provider controls.
- Integrating data governance considerations into enterprise risk management.
- Supporting regulatory compliance and corporate governance processes.
Data protection is no longer exclusively an IT department’s concern. It is increasingly connected with financial risk, operational efficiency and corporate accountability.
An Important Distinction: Is the Entire DPDP Framework Already Operational?
Not yet.
India is implementing the DPDP framework in phases.
The Consent Manager registration provisions came into effect on 13 November 2026. However, the key provisions relating to individual data rights, obligations of Data Fiduciaries and the Board’s inquiry and penalty processes are scheduled to come into effect on 13 May 2027.
Therefore, businesses should distinguish between the commencement of the registration framework and the commencement of the remaining substantive obligations.
This phased approach gives organisations time to prepare for the wider compliance framework.
The Road Ahead: Privacy as a Competitive Advantage
In the coming years, customers may increasingly evaluate digital businesses not only on convenience and pricing but also on how responsibly they handle personal information.
Organisations that build transparent data practices can strengthen trust, protect their reputation and create more sustainable customer relationships.
At the same time, effective implementation will depend on accessible technology, credible registration processes, regulatory oversight and awareness among citizens.
Conclusion: The Future of Digital Business Must Be Built on Trust
India’s digital economy has grown through innovation, connectivity and the expansion of digital services.
The next stage of its development must focus equally on responsibility and trust.
The new Consent Manager framework represents an important step towards giving individuals greater control over their personal information while opening a new area of opportunity for businesses.
Because in tomorrow’s digital economy, collecting data may create business value, but earning the trust to use it will create lasting value.
Your data is your identity. Your consent should remain your choice.
