How has Digital India Transformed the Lives of the Underprivileged?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Digital India initiative, launched 11 years ago, is reshaping governance and empowering the marginalized through technology. From Direct Benefit Transfers to paperless systems, explore the transformative impact on millions of lives.
Key Takeaways
- Digital India has transformed governance over the past decade.
- Direct Benefit Transfer has revolutionized welfare delivery.
- Aadhaar serves as the backbone of India's digital identity.
- DigiLocker promotes a paperless governance model.
- UMANG app consolidates multiple government services into one platform.
New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) Beyond the 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas' commitment, the ambition to achieve 'Digital India' is becoming a reality, forming the cornerstone of the current governance model.
The digital transformation that commenced 11 years ago is deeply embedded in nearly every policy and public welfare initiative, outlining comprehensive strategies to benefit the underprivileged, marginalized, and downtrodden.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared on the social media platform X about "utilizing technology to provide countless benefits for the populace".
"Service delivery and transparency have witnessed significant enhancements. Technology has emerged as a tool to uplift the lives of the most disadvantaged," he added.
Here’s an overview of how the Digital India mission has opened doors for millions:
The Digital India campaign, introduced by PM Modi during his first tenure, has fundamentally altered the trajectory of the nation's growth over the last decade. Governance has turned more transparent and accessible for all citizens, unveiling vast opportunities for the average individual.
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) stands out as a pivotal achievement of the Modi administration, ensuring the efficient and leak-proof delivery of public welfare funds and schemes to millions of underprivileged households. Presently, villages have access to internet services, and digital payment systems are extending into rural areas.
DBT transfers
Currently, over 322 schemes spanning 56 ministries are included in the DBT initiative. Over Rs 44 lakh crore has been directly transferred into beneficiaries' accounts, with Rs 3.48 lakh crore saved by eliminating leakages and middlemen.
In the last decade, there has been a staggering 90-fold increase in DBT transfers, marking a groundbreaking phase in public welfare delivery characterized by speed and transparency.
Aadhaar: The Largest Digital ID System Globally
Aadhaar, a unique identifier for every citizen, is driving India's digital identity evolution.
Today, every individual in the 140-crore population possesses a unique 12-digit Aadhaar number, with Aadhaar authentication transactions surpassing 150 billion.
DigiLocker: Facilitating Paperless Governance
DigiLocker, an online document storage application, has significantly advanced paperless governance. According to official figures, there are over 52 crore registered DigiLocker users in India, with more than 852 crore documents issued.
Jeevan Pramaan
Through the Jeevan Pramaan scheme, technology has been utilized to restore dignity to human lives. The Jeevan Praman Patra has eased the process for pensioners by offering seamless digital life certificates.
Today, over 10 crore pensioners are registered, allowing them to avoid in-person visits to banks for their life certificates.
Since November 2024, over 143 lakh 'Digital Life Certificates' have been submitted.
UMANG: A Unified Platform for Services
The UMANG App has been essential in consolidating all government services into a single platform. It has become a comprehensive digital gateway, providing access to over 2,000 services across numerous government sectors. Records indicate there are over 8.21 crore registered users, with about 597 crore transactions.
The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyaan is another initiative with profound implications, significantly narrowing the digital gap in rural India.
Point of View
It's clear that Digital India represents a significant leap towards inclusivity and transparency. The initiatives launched under this campaign have the potential to bridge the gap between different socio-economic strata, providing a more equitable platform for all citizens. The nation's commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of society is commendable.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Digital India initiative?
Digital India is a campaign launched by the Indian government aimed at ensuring that government services are made available to citizens electronically by improving online infrastructure.
How has Digital India impacted governance?
Digital India has enhanced transparency and accessibility in governance, allowing citizens to benefit from various public welfare schemes effectively.
What is the significance of Direct Benefit Transfer?
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ensures the efficient and leak-proof delivery of welfare funds directly into beneficiaries' accounts, thus reducing corruption and middlemen's influence.
How does Aadhaar contribute to Digital India?
Aadhaar provides a unique digital identity for every citizen, facilitating access to various services and benefits seamlessly.
What role does technology play in empowering the poor?
Technology serves as a powerful tool in delivering services, enhancing transparency, and providing access to resources for the economically disadvantaged.
