Department of Telecommunications (DoT) under Ministry of Communications expanded the Sanchar Mitra Scheme into a nationwide programme to create a digitally aware, cyber-resilient citizenry across India, especially in rural and underserved areas.
What is Sanchar Mitra Scheme?
- A volunteer-driven digital literacy and telecom awareness initiative using university students to be trained and engaged as“Sanchar Mitras” (Digital Ambassadors). Sanchar Mitras will conduct awareness sessions, community outreach, and promote responsible use of digital technologies.
Objectives of Scheme
- To promote digital literacy, cyber hygiene, and responsible use of telecom services.
- To bridge the communication gap between citizens and telecom governance.
- To empower youth to act as community telecom ambassadors.
- To counter cyber fraud, misinformation, and telecom-related scams.
Implementing Ministry:
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications
Key Features of Sanchar Mitra Scheme
| Feature | Details |
| Volunteer Engagement | University students from streams like telecom, electronics, computer science, and cybersecurity nominated as Sanchar Mitras |
| Training Support | Training provided by National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T) and DoT Media Wing |
| Training Coverage | Topics include 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, EMF radiation safety |
| Outreach Methods | Sanchar Mitras conduct campaigns, partner with NGOs, and host public education drives on cyber safety and telecom rights |
| Recognition & Incentives | High-performing volunteers may receive: • Internship offers • Participation in India Mobile Congress • Representation in International Telecommunication Union (ITU) forums |
| Implementation Reach | Already active in Assam with top institutions (IIT, NIT, IIIT); now expanded nationwide |
Strategic Pillars of Scheme
- Connect: Bridge the gap between citizens and telecom services.
- Educate: Spread awareness on cyber fraud, radiation safety, and digital literacy.
- Innovate: Encourage students to participate in telecom innovations and solutions.
Significance
- Digital Empowerment: Enhances grassroots understanding of secure and responsible digital participation.
- Cybercrime Reduction: Helps tackle increasing incidents of online fraud and misinformation.
- Youth Involvement: Leverages India’s demographic dividend for nation-building.
- Alignment with India’s Vision: Supports the government’s four pillars of Democracy, Demography, Digitization, and Delivery.
Key Facts
- Department of Telecommunications (DoT): Comes under the Ministry of Communications.
- National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T): Training and research wing under DoT.
- India Mobile Congress: Asia’s largest telecom, media, and technology forum organized by DoT and COAI.
- ITU: International Telecommunication Union, headquartered in Geneva.