Indian Railways is introducing NFT-based practice tickets for folks touring to the MahaKumbh Mela, a serious Hindu competition. The competition is a uncommon occasion that occurs as soon as each 12 years and attracts hundreds of thousands of pilgrims from around the globe.
Indian Railway Companions with Chaincode Consulting
On January 13, Chaincode Consulting introduced its collaboration with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Company (IRCTC) to implement NFT-based ticketing. These NFTs shall be minted on the Polygon blockchain and distributed by the NFTtrace platform, which helps real-world asset traceability.
The Polygon blockchain was chosen for its excessive transaction pace and low prices, making it an eco-friendly and scalable choice. Alok Gupta, the CEO of Chaincode Consulting, stated this mission combines digital innovation with the cultural and religious significance of the MahaKumbh Mela. He stated this initiative would create a “digital-first experience” for the MahaKumbh Mela.
Indian Railways guide about 1.2 million tickets day by day through the IRCTC platform. Furthermore, this NFT ticketing will present vacationers with a singular and verifiable digital memento of their religious journey.
Aishwary Gupta, an govt at Polygon Labs, talked concerning the significance of public blockchains in eradicating intermediaries. He added that Indian governments at each state and central ranges have efficiently used Polygon in different initiatives.
What’s MahaKumbh Mela?
The MahaKumbh Mela is among the largest non secular gatherings on the earth. It happens each 144 years and attracts hundreds of thousands of individuals. A associated occasion, the Kumbh Mela, occurs each 12 years and is part of UNESCO world cultural heritage.
The competition has drawn international figures like actor Richard Gere, director David Lynch, and the Dalai Lama. In line with studies, Laurene Jobs, widow of Apple founder Steve Jobs, plans to attend the 2025 pilgrimage.
Previous NFT Initiatives by IRCTC
This isn’t the primary time Indian Railways has used NFTs. In March 2024, it additionally launched NFT tickets for the Holi competition. These tickets celebrated the tradition of Indian cities like Lucknow and Delhi and have been additionally verifiable on a blockchain.
Indian Railways has beforehand used blockchain know-how to maintain observe of ticket purchases. By utilizing NFTs for the MahaKumbh Mela, they intention to mix trendy know-how with India’s wealthy cultural traditions.