Since its inception on July 1, 2015, the Digital India programme has catalyzed a paradigm shift in the way services are delivered to citizens. This resounding success story recently received a significant boost as the Union Cabinet, under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister, gave its nod to the expansion of the Digital India initiative. With an ambitious total outlay of ₹14,903 crores, this expansion is poised to bring about a sweeping transformation in the realm of digital services, training, and technological advancement.
Fostering Skill Development: FutureSkills Prime Programme
The cornerstone of the Digital India programme’s expansion lies in its commitment to skill development. Through the FutureSkills Prime Programme, a staggering 6.25 lakh IT professionals are slated to undergo re-skilling and up-skilling. This strategic move not only addresses the ever-evolving demands of the IT sector but also fortifies India’s global position as a hub for skilled tech talent.
Securing Information: Information Security & Education Awareness Phase (ISEA) Programme
Recognizing the imperative of cybersecurity, the expansion introduces the Information Security & Education Awareness Phase (ISEA) Programme. With a goal to train 2.65 lakh individuals in information security, this initiative seeks to create a robust workforce capable of safeguarding digital assets and ensuring the integrity of online transactions.
Unified Access: Expanding UMANG’s Realm
The Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance (UMANG) app has been a cornerstone of the Digital India movement, facilitating access to government services. Building upon its success, the expansion introduces 540 additional services to the UMANG platform, enhancing the convenience and accessibility of public services. This augmentation is poised to make citizens’ interaction with the government smoother and more efficient.
National Super Computer Mission
In line with India’s aspiration to excel in the realm of supercomputing, the Digital India expansion sets the stage for the deployment of 9 additional supercomputers. This expansion supplements the existing fleet of 18 supercomputers and is expected to elevate India’s prowess in scientific research, data analytics, and computational simulations.
Linguistic Empowerment: Bhashini’s Multilingual Outreach
In a bid to bridge linguistic divides, the expansion ushers in the wider implementation of Bhashini, an AI-enabled multi-language translation tool. Currently available in 10 languages, Bhashini’s integration into all 22 schedule 8 languages aims to democratize digital content consumption, facilitating access for diverse linguistic communities.
Enriching Education: Modernisation of the National Knowledge Network (NKN)
Recognizing the pivotal role of education in India’s digital journey, the expansion breathes new life into the National Knowledge Network (NKN). With connectivity to 1,787 educational institutions, the modernization of NKN promises enhanced collaboration, knowledge sharing, and research capabilities among India’s academic community.
Paperless Progress: DigiLocker for MSMEs and Beyond
The Digital India expansion underscores the government’s commitment to a paperless future. The inclusion of MSMEs and other organizations in the digital document verification facility provided by DigiLocker further propels the digitization of official records, streamlining administrative processes and minimizing bureaucracy.
Catalyzing Innovation: Support for Tier 2/3 City Startups
In a move to democratize innovation and entrepreneurship, the expansion earmarks support for 1,200 startups in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. This initiative not only decentralizes the startup ecosystem but also contributes to job creation, economic growth, and technological innovation at the grassroots level.
AI’s Impact: Centers of Excellence in Artificial Intelligence
Acknowledging the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, the expansion establishes three Centers of Excellence in AI, focusing on health, agriculture, and sustainable cities. These centers aim to harness AI’s capabilities to address critical challenges, enhancing public services, and fostering sustainable development.
Cyber-awareness and Security Initiatives
Understanding the paramount importance of cybersecurity in the digital age, the expansion introduces comprehensive cyber-awareness courses for a staggering 12 crores college students. Additionally, the plan encompasses the development of tools and integration of over 200 sites with the National Cyber Coordination Centre, fortifying India’s cyber defenses.
UPSC Mains Questions
- How does the expansion of the Digital India programme address both skill development and cybersecurity challenges?
- In what ways does the integration of Bhashini into all schedule 8 languages contribute to linguistic inclusivity and digital accessibility?
- How might the deployment of additional supercomputers through the National Super Computer Mission impact India’s scientific research and technological innovation?
- What potential socio-economic impact can the support for startups in Tier 2/3 cities have on local economies and the overall startup ecosystem?