India’s Samriddh Gram: Integrated Phygital Service Delivery Model Enabled by BharatNet, an initiative of the Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications, has been nominated for the WSIS Prizes 2026 in the Action Line AL C6: Enabling Environment category. This recognition highlights India’s efforts to leverage digital infrastructure for inclusive rural development and digital empowerment.
About Samriddh Gram Initiative
The initiative is built on the backbone of BharatNet and focuses on delivering integrated services through Samriddhi Kendras, which function as one-stop phygital community hubs combining physical infrastructure with digital platforms.
These centres provide rural citizens seamless access to:
- Healthcare services (including telemedicine)
- Education (smart classrooms)
- Agriculture support and advisory
- Governance and public service delivery
- Financial inclusion services
- E-commerce and digital marketplaces
High-speed broadband, FTTH connectivity, and public Wi-Fi enable these services, transforming digital access into practical socio-economic benefits.
Key Features and Impact
- Establishment of Samriddhi Kendras as integrated service hubs
- Use of phygital model (physical + digital service delivery)
- Enabled by high-speed internet and public Wi-Fi infrastructure
- Promotes:
- Digital governance
- Technology-driven agriculture
- Telemedicine and online education
- Early outcomes include:
- Reduced travel time and costs
- Improved access to essential services
- Enhanced digital literacy
- Increased livelihood opportunities
Implementation Model
- Designed as a scalable and sustainable framework
- Operates through a community-based entrepreneurial model
- Replicable across diverse geographies in India and globally
- Demonstrates how telecom infrastructure can act as a catalyst for rural transformation
A major milestone was achieved with the inauguration of India’s first Samriddhi Kendra at Umri village, Guna district (Madhya Pradesh) by the Union Minister of Communications.
About WSIS (World Summit on the Information Society)
- A global multi-stakeholder platform promoting digital development and inclusive information societies
- Brings together: Industry, Governments, Civil society, International organisations, Academia
- The WSIS Prizes recognise innovative ICT-based projects contributing to sustainable development
The WSIS Forum 2026 will be held from 6–10 July 2026 in Geneva, focusing on:
- Emerging technologies
- Digital inclusion
- Cybersecurity
- Global digital cooperation
Significance
- Showcases India’s leadership in digital public infrastructure for rural development
- Highlights transition from connectivity to service delivery
- Strengthens global recognition of India’s inclusive digital model
- Encourages adoption of phygital governance frameworks worldwide