New Delhi: NITI Aayog and Nasscom Foundation have announced a collaborative initiative aimed at digitally empowering one lakh individuals in India. This initiative aligns with the Pradhan Mantri Digital Saksharta Abhiyan and focuses on providing digital literacy training and access to essential e-governance services across 60 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) blocks in its initial phase. The program will be later expanded to cover all aspirational blocks, promoting digital inclusion as part of the government’s vision of Viksit Bharat. By fostering inclusive growth, the initiative seeks to ensure that marginalized communities are not left behind in India’s digital transformation journey.
Overview of the Initiative
Participants will receive training on foundational computer skills, cybersecurity, and effective internet usage, empowering them to confidently navigate the digital world. The focus on these skills aims to bridge the digital divide and equip participants with tools for economic and social advancement.
Nasscom Foundation emphasized that technology is a critical driver of progress and empowerment. Digital literacy is key to enabling India’s remotest communities, particularly the marginalized PVTGs, to achieve sustainable growth and prosperity. The foundation stated that the Aspirational Blocks Programme is about not only bridging the digital divide but also deepening democracy and encouraging active participation in shaping the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Significance of the program: APAC News Analysis
According to the Tribal Development Report 2022, the literacy rate among PVTGs is just 47.7%, significantly below the national average of 77.3%. This highlights the urgent need for digital literacy programs in these communities to address disparities and drive progress. Building on the success of the Aspirational Districts Programme launched in 2022, which focused on bridging the digital divide across 55 aspirational districts in 23 states through Digital Resource Centres, this new initiative expands its reach to include aspirational blocks. By targeting communities such as women and youth aged 12 to 60, it aims to foster holistic growth and inclusion through essential digital skills and resources. This initiative underscores Nasscom Foundation’s commitment to leveraging technology for social impact, fostering inclusive growth, and driving sustainable development in India’s marginalized regions.
