Digital India is a flagship program of the Government of India, launched on July 1, 2015, with the aim of transforming India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. This initiative seeks to ensure that government services are made available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure and by increasing Internet connectivity or by making the country digitally empowered in the field of technology. The campaign is centered on three key vision areas: Digital Infrastructure as a Utility to Every Citizen, Governance & Services on Demand, and Digital Empowerment of Citizens.
A major element of Digital India is the development of secure and stable digital infrastructure. This involves providing high-speed internet access, even to remote rural areas, thereby bridging the urban-rural digital divide. As of 2023, the BharatNet project, a part of this initiative, aims to connect 250,000 gram panchayats (village councils) across the country using high-speed optical fiber. This is critical as it lays the foundation for providing easy access to e-services, particularly in the areas of health, education, and banking, significantly enhancing the reach and efficacy of the services provided.
Under the umbrella of Digital India, the push for e-governance has been monumental. The initiative has led to the creation of several platforms that facilitate efficient and transparent government processes. Platforms such as MyGov, e-Hospital, and Digilocker have revolutionized how citizens interact with the government. For instance, Digilocker provides people with access to authentic digital documents, thus reducing the need for physical documents. Meanwhile, e-Kranti aims to ensure electronic delivery of all government services, promoting an inclusive digital society.
Digital empowerment is another crucial pillar, focusing on digital literacy and the creation of digital resources in Indian languages to ensure wider accessibility. Programs like Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) are significant because they aim to make at least one individual in every household digitally literate. The initiative also promotes OpenAPIs to encourage software developers and industry to develop apps and services for citizens, fostering a competitive digital ecosystem. As Digital India continues to evolve, it remains a key player in the country's pursuit of enhanced economic growth and improved quality of life through digital transformations.
Digital India represents not just technological advancement but also a way to fight corruption, create job opportunities, and promote easy and efficient governance. With its comprehensive approach to digital inclusion, the initiative ensures that the benefits of technology are accessible to every segment of Indian society.