Sanchar Mitra Scheme
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India, recently expanded the Sanchar Mitra Scheme into a nationwide movement. The scheme engages student volunteers as digital ambassadors to promote telecom awareness and digital literacy. This initiative aims to bridge the communication gap between citizens and the telecom ecosystem. The Assam LSA office hosted an interactive session with premier engineering institutes to discuss the scheme’s objectives and implementation.
Background and Objectives
Sanchar Mitra Scheme was initially piloted in select institutions with positive results. It aims to mobilise youth as informed ambassadors for telecom awareness. The key goals include raising public knowledge on digital safety, cyber fraud prevention, and responsible mobile usage. The scheme also addresses concerns like EMF radiation and promotes digital literacy at the grassroots level.
Key Pillars of the Scheme
The scheme rests on three pillars – CONNECT, EDUCATE, and INNOVATE.
- CONNECT focuses on linking citizens with telecom services.
- EDUCATE emphasises spreading awareness about telecom benefits and risks.
- INNOVATE encourages students to engage with emerging technologies and contribute to telecom research and development.
Role of Student Volunteers
Selected students from engineering and technology backgrounds become Sanchar Mitras. They receive training from experts at the National Communications Academy–Technology and DoT’s Media Wing. Their tasks include conducting community awareness drives, collaborating with NGOs, and promoting informed digital behaviour. Students are assessed regularly on their innovation, outreach, and consistency.
Technological Exposure and Skill Development
Participants gain exposure to advanced telecom technologies such as 5G, 6G, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security. The scheme offers hands-on experience through projects and interaction with national telecom initiatives. High-performing Sanchar Mitras may receive internships, national project roles, and opportunities to participate in forums like the India Mobile Congress and ITU policy discussions.
Government Vision and Impact
The initiative aligns with India’s broader vision of leadership in Democracy, Demography, Digitisation, and Delivery. It supports the country’s transition from a telecom consumer to a global provider of telecom products and services. By empowering youth, the scheme aims to build a digitally skilled workforce and encourage innovation in telecom research and manufacturing.
Collaboration with Educational Institutions
The DoT collaborates with premier institutions like IITs, IIITs, NITs, and other engineering colleges. These institutions nominate students with relevant academic backgrounds. The partnership ensures a structured approach to training and outreach. The enthusiastic participation from institutes indicates strong support for the scheme’s objectives.
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