Nationwide rollout for digital inclusion
Sanchar Mitra Scheme Empowers Students in Telecom Literacy: The Sanchar Mitra Scheme, initiated by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), has been expanded into a national programme to promote digital literacy. Originally a pilot in select institutions, it now aims to involve thousands of students as telecom ambassadors across the country.
The goal is to create an informed population capable of safely and effectively using telecom services, especially in rural and underserved areas.
Empowering students as Sanchar Mitras
Engineering and technology students are selected to become Sanchar Mitras. These students are trained by experts from the National Communications Academy – Technology and DoT’s Media Wing. Their key responsibilities include conducting community sessions on telecom safety, cybercrime prevention, and responsible digital use.
They also partner with NGOs and local bodies to spread awareness, serving as the link between citizens and digital governance.
The three key pillars
The scheme is built around three main pillars:
- CONNECT: Bridge the gap between citizens and telecom systems.
- EDUCATE: Spread awareness on telecom benefits, EMF radiation facts, and risks like phishing or SIM fraud.
- INNOVATE: Motivate students to engage in research and development in the telecom space.
Static GK fact: The Department of Telecommunications functions under the Ministry of Communications, Government of India.
Advanced learning and national exposure
Sanchar Mitras get hands-on training in cutting-edge areas such as 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security. Their learning is not just theoretical – it includes national-level projects, tech events, and innovation challenges.
Outstanding performers get the opportunity to attend India Mobile Congress, engage in ITU (International Telecommunication Union) dialogues, and intern with top telecom organisations.
Building India’s digital future
This scheme is closely aligned with India’s vision of becoming a global telecom leader. By nurturing innovation and digital responsibility, the initiative supports pillars like Democracy, Demography, Digitisation, and Delivery, which form the core of India’s governance approach.
Static GK Tip: India has the second-largest telecom subscriber base in the world after China.
Partnering with premier institutions
Institutes like IITs, IIITs, NITs, and other engineering colleges play a crucial role. These colleges nominate students with suitable academic backgrounds. Their involvement ensures structured outreach and effective deployment of student volunteers.
This collaboration also brings together academic excellence and public service, making it a model for participative governance.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Sanchar Mitra Scheme Empowers Students in Telecom Literacy:
| Topic | Detail |
| Launch Body | Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Ministry of Communications |
| Scheme Focus | Digital literacy, telecom safety, community outreach |
| Volunteer Role | Student ambassadors from engineering and technology backgrounds |
| Training Institutes | National Communications Academy, DoT Media Wing |
| Technologies Covered | 5G, 6G, AI, Cyber Security |
| Key Initiatives | India Mobile Congress, ITU policy forums |
| Supporting Institutes | IITs, IIITs, NITs, engineering colleges |
| Outreach Mechanism | Community sessions, NGO partnerships, awareness drives |
| Scheme Pillars | CONNECT, EDUCATE, INNOVATE |
| Long-term Goal | Position India as global telecom provider |
