Launched by: Ministry of Communications, Department of Telecommunications (DoT)
Context:
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has expanded the Sanchar Mitra Scheme into a nationwide programme to build digital literacy and enhance cyber safety awareness among citizens through a volunteer-based outreach programme.
What is the Sanchar Mitra Scheme?
A volunteer-based digital outreach programme that engages university students to educate citizens about:
- Safe telecom usage
- Cyber fraud prevention
- Responsible digital behavior
Objectives
- Promote digital literacy and cyber hygiene
- Bridge the awareness gap between citizens and telecom regulations/services
- Empower youth to become telecom ambassadors in their communities
Key Features:
- Volunteer Engagement:
- Students from telecom, electronics, computer science, and cybersecurity backgrounds serve as “Sanchar Mitras”
- Specialized Training:
- Volunteers trained by National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T) and DoT Media Wing
- Modules include 5G, 6G, AI, cybersecurity, and EMF radiation safety
- Community Outreach:
- Volunteers conduct awareness drives, partner with NGOs, and host workshops for general public and schools
- Incentives & Recognition:
- Top performers may get:
- Internship opportunities
- Invitations to India Mobile Congress
- Access to ITU global forums
- Top performers may get:
- Nationwide Rollout:
- Already operational in Assam in collaboration with IITs, IIITs, NITs
- Now expanding pan-India
