In today’s world, For personal development, societal empowerment, and economic progress, digital literacy is crucial. To address this digital divide and promote digital inclusion, several state governments have launched free smartphone and tablet schemes for their citizens. One such initiative is the UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana launched by the government of Uttar Pradesh in India. In this article, the major features, benefits, and challenges of this programme and how they relate to how people in UP conduct their lives.
| Scheme Name | UP Free Tablet / Smartphone Scheme 2023 |
|---|---|
| who started | Government of Uttar Pradesh |
| number of beneficiaries | 1 crore |
| Objective | Providing Free Tablets and Smartphones |
| Budget | 3000 crore rupees |
| Type of application | Online/Offline |
| Official website | Digi Shakti Portal |
Introduction
The UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana is a flagship scheme of the Uttar Pradesh government aimed at providing free smartphones and tablets to eligible beneficiaries. The scheme was launched in 2021. The scheme is part of the state government’s broader vision of Digital UP, which aims to transform Uttar Pradesh into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
Overview of UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana
The beneficiaries will receive a high-quality device with pre-installed apps for various government services, e-learning, healthcare, etc. The government will also provide free internet data for a limited period to help the beneficiaries access the online services.
Eligibility Criteria and Selection Process
Students studying in government schools, colleges, and universities.
The selection process will be conducted online through a dedicated portal where the applicants can register and upload their documents for verification. A merit list will be used to make the decision.
Benefits of the Scheme
The UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana has several benefits for eligible beneficiaries, as discussed below.
Bridging the Digital Divide
The scheme is expected to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy among the marginalized sections of society. By giving the qualified recipients free smartphones and tablets,
Access to Online Services
The beneficiaries can use these apps to access online services conveniently and efficiently without having to visit government offices.
Employment Opportunities
The scheme is also expected to create employment opportunities for the beneficiaries. such as E-commerce, social media marketing, online contracting, etc.
Education and Skill Development
The scheme is expected to boost education and skill development among eligible beneficiaries.
What is Digishakti UP Portal?
Digishakti UP Portal is an online platform launched by the Uttar Pradesh government to provide digital services to its residents. The portal aims to provide digital literacy and skilling opportunities to the citizens of Uttar Pradesh. The portal offers various services such as e-learning courses, digital literacy programs, and skill development courses to its users.
Why Should You Register on Digishakti UP Portal?
There are several benefits of registering on the Digishakti UP Portal. Some of the key benefits are:
- Access to e-learning courses and digital literacy programs
- Skilling opportunities to enhance your employability
- Access to government schemes and initiatives
- Opportunity to interact with experts in the field of digital literacy
- Opportunity to network with other users of the portal
Requirements for Digishakti UP Portal Registration
Make sure you have the following documentation and information before you begin the registration process:
- a working mobile number and email address
- A scanned copy of your photograph and signature
- Your education and employment details
- Your address and contact details
Step-by-Step Process for Digishakti UP Portal Registration
Follow these simple steps to register on the Digishakti UP Portal:
Step 1: Visit the Digishakti UP Portal website
Visit the official website of the Digishakti UP Portal (https://digishakti.up.gov.in/).
Step 2: Click on the Register button from the menu.
A working mobile number and email address
Step 3: Enter Your Basic Details
Provide your identifying information, including your name, Birthdate, Gender, and Aadhar number.
Step 4: Upload Your Photo and Signature
Upload a scanned copy of your photograph and signature in the required format.
Step 5: Enter Your Address and Contact Details
Provide your postal address, Mobile number, Email ID, and other contact information.
Step 6: Provide Your Education and Employment Details
Provide your education and employment details, including your highest qualification, current employment status, and work experience.
Step 7: Create a Username and Password
Create a username and password for your Digishakti UP Portal account.
Step 8: Verify Your Mobile Number and Email ID
Verify your mobile number and email ID by entering the OTP sent to your mobile number and email ID.
Step 9: Submit Your Registration Form
Review all the details you have provided and submit your registration form.
Congratulations, you have successfully registered on the Digishakti UP Portal! You can now access various digital services and skilling opportunities provided by the Uttar Pradesh government.
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Challenges and Limitations
The UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana also faces several challenges and limitations, as discussed below.
Sustainability Concerns
To guarantee that the programme serves the recipients in the long run, the government must address these concerns.
Privacy and Security Risks
The scheme also poses privacy and security risks to the beneficiaries. The pre-installed apps and the internet connectivity provided by the government can expose the beneficiaries’ personal and sensitive information to the risk of hacking, phishing, and other cyber threats.
Impact of the Scheme
The UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana has already started making a positive impact on the lives of the beneficiaries, as discussed below.
Success Stories
Several beneficiaries have reported significant improvements in their lives after receiving smartphones and tablets under the scheme. For example, many students have improved their academic performance by accessing e-learning resources and online tutorials. Many farmers have increased their crop yields and profits by using government apps for crop management and marketing. Many construction workers have found new employment opportunities by registering on online job portals.
Future Prospects
The government may expand the programme and turn it into a sustainable and inclusive model for digital inclusion in India if it has the necessary resources, knowledge, and governance.
Conclusion
The UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana is a bold and visionary initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government to bridge the digital divide and promote digital literacy among the marginalized sections of society. The scheme has the potential to create employment opportunities, improve access to online services, and enhance education and skill development among eligible beneficiaries. With its successful implementation, the scheme can become a model for digital inclusion in India and empower millions of people to lead better life.
FAQs
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Who is eligible for the UP Free Smartphone Tablet Yojana?
Ans: The scheme is available to all families whose annual income is less than Rs. 3 lakhs and who have completed 18 years of age.
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What is the cost of the smartphones and tablets provided under the scheme?
Ans: The state government covers the cost of the gadgets; there is no cost to the recipients.
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Can the beneficiaries choose the brand and model of the device?
Ans: No, the government selects the brand and model of the device based on the availability and suitability for the beneficiaries.
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What happens if the device gets damaged or lost?
Ans: The government provides a one-year warranty and insurance for the devices. If the device gets damaged or lost within one year, the government replaces it for free.
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