RuTAGe Smart Village Initiatives to Connect Rural Demands with Technological Progress: Government
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Synopsis
The government highlighted the significance of RuTAGe Smart Village Centres in bridging rural needs with technology advancements, emphasizing their role in empowering communities through innovative solutions.
Key Takeaways
- RSVC helps connect rural requirements with technology.
- Focus on empowering rural areas through innovative solutions.
- Partnerships with major platforms for market access.
- 12 technology tracks to address diverse rural challenges.
- Plans for expanding RSVCs across India.
New Delhi, Feb 15 (NationPress) The Rural Technology Action Group (RuTAGe) Smart Village Centres (RSVC) play a crucial role in connecting rural requirements with advancements in technology, as stated by the government on Saturday.
Established by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser in 2004, RuTAG aims to fill technology gaps at the grassroots level, enhance existing technologies, and offer training and demonstrations through innovative rural projects.
“RSVC represents a key initiative towards closing the divide between rural needs and technological breakthroughs, ensuring that innovation reaches the grassroots and positively impacts our communities,” remarked Prof. Ajay Sood, the Principal Scientific Adviser, during the inauguration of an RSVC in Mandaura village, located in Haryana's Sonipat district.
Discussing the rationale behind RSVC formation, Sood pointed out significant challenges faced by rural populations in accessing technologies that meet their fundamental needs. These challenges encompass innovative solutions for issues like animal intrusion, organic farming methods, and livelihood-enhancing technologies including bead-making and bakery machinery.
“This launch marks a vital stage in the Government of India’s commitment to empowering rural regions, offering solutions that are sustainable, scalable, and impactful,” said the Principal Scientific Adviser.
The RuTAGe RSVC aims to establish a sustained presence at the Panchayat level, providing comprehensive support to meet the technological needs of 15-20 villages over several years. It presents a diverse array of 12 technology tracks to tackle various rural challenges, including agriculture and waste management, fostering local entrepreneurship, renewable energy, and quality assurance.
Additionally, the RSVC focuses on enhancing market linkages through partnerships with platforms like ONDC, Amazon, and Market Mirchi (an innovation from RuTAG by IIT Bombay), ensuring that rural producers gain access to broader markets to sell their products effectively.
The RSVC model is poised for expansion, with plans to introduce 20 new centres throughout India.
