Yes, you can build DPDPA compliance without hiring an expensive consultant—if you're willing to invest time, document all decisions, and follow the Act plus Rule structures.
Consultants become valuable only when you're classified as a Significant Data Fiduciary (SDF), handle large volumes of sensitive data, or face Data Protection Board investigations.
In the Ankur Technology case study, the company acts as a Data Fiduciary for webinars, newsletters, student registrations, and HR data—but becomes a Data Processor only when clients contract it to process data under their instructions.
Remember: the Data Fiduciary remains fully responsible for DPDPA compliance, even when third-party processors like Salesforce handle data on its behalf.