The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) is a landmark initiative launched by the Indian Government in 2017. It focuses on enhancing digital literacy in rural India, empowering individuals with essential digital skills to engage in a rapidly digitalizing world.
1. PMGDISHA Scheme Overview
In an effort to digitize rural India, the government introduced the National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM), also known as the Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA). This initiative aims to train 52.5 lakh individuals, including Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and ration dealers, to improve their IT skills.
The initiative focuses on equipping non-IT literate citizens with essential digital literacy skills, empowering them to engage actively in both democratic processes and the digital economy. By ensuring at least one individual per rural household gains digital literacy, PMGDISHA plans to impact over 250 million people over the coming years. This scheme plays a pivotal role in bridging the digital divide, particularly in rural areas where access to technology has been limited.
Key Objectives of PMGDISHA
The goal is to provide basic digital education and training to people who are not familiar with technology, enabling them to use smartphones, computers, and the internet for personal and professional growth. Training under this scheme includes using digital devices for tasks like sending emails, browsing the internet, accessing government services, and making digital payments.
2. Eligibility Criteria for PMGDISHA
To participate in PMGDISHA, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 14 to 60 years
- Digital Literacy: Candidates must be digitally illiterate, with preference given to women, SC/ST communities, BPL families, and differently-abled persons.
- Household Eligibility: Only one member per household is eligible to be trained under the scheme.
- Target Group: The scheme prioritizes individuals from marginalized and underserved sections of rural areas, such as women, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and those below the poverty line.
3. How to Register for PMGDISHA
To enroll for the Program, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Website
Navigate to www.pmgdisha.in and click on the ‘Register’ option. - Choose a Training Centre
Select your preferred training centre from the list of authorized centers provided on the website. - Fill in Personal Details
Enter the required details such as your name, date of birth, gender, and Aadhaar number. - Submit the Application
After entering the necessary details, submit your registration form. - Wait for Confirmation
Upon successful submission, you will receive a confirmation message along with a reference number on your mobile. - Attend Training
Visit the selected training centre with your Aadhaar card or enrollment number for the scheduled sessions. - Complete the Assessment
After completing the training, take the assessment exam to receive your digital literacy certification.
4. PMGDISHA Training and Certification
The Digital training program spans a period of 10 to 30 days, with a minimum of 20 hours of training. The course content focuses on helping individuals use digital devices for basic tasks, from browsing the internet to making digital payments and accessing government services.
Once training is completed, candidates must pass an assessment to be certified. Training centers offer this certification process, and those who succeed receive a digital certificate validating their new skills.
5. Benefits and Features of PMGDISHA
Free Digital Literacy Training
PMGDISHA offers free digital literacy training to all eligible participants in rural areas. The program covers various aspects of digital literacy, including internet navigation, online services, and smartphone usage.
Focus on Women and Marginalized Groups
The scheme prioritizes women and members of marginalized communities, aiming to reduce gender inequality and promote inclusive digital empowerment.
Increased Productivity and Employment
By equipping rural citizens with digital skills, the initiative enhances their productivity and creates new employment opportunities, especially in the e-commerce and digital payment sectors.
Promotion of Digital Inclusion
The scheme strives to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that even individuals from the most remote areas can access and benefit from the digital economy.
FAQs
1. What benefits does the PMGDISHA certificate offer?
The certificate enhances the ability to access various government services online and boosts employability by equipping individuals with essential digital skills.
2. When is the last date for PMGDISHA registration in 2023?
The registration deadline varies. For the most up-to-date information, please check the official PMGDISHA website or contact your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC).
3. Is PMGDISHA linked to UPSC exams?
No, PMGDISHA is a program designed to improve digital literacy among rural populations. It is not associated with the UPSC or any examination related to civil services.
4. What is the primary target of PMGDISHA?
The scheme aims to digitally empower 6 crore rural Indians by offering training to at least one member from every rural household.
5. Are there any costs for PMGDISHA training?
Training under PMGDISHA is free of charge. However, some training centers may charge a nominal fee for infrastructure costs like electricity and internet services.