In a ground-breaking initiative towards women’s empowerment and bridging the digital divide, the State Government has unveiled the Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana. Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot inaugurated the scheme at the Birla Auditorium, marking a watershed moment in the state’s history.
Addressing a huge gathering, Chief Minister Gehlot emphasized that the state government’s decisions are consistently etching their place in history, and Rajasthan’s reputation as a leader in the the country’s IT industry has further strengthened. The Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana is set to serve as an effective catalyst for women’s empowerment, coupled with a revolutionary transformation in the information technology sector.
The visionary scheme aims to provide nearly every woman in the state with access to a smartphone, which will unlock new opportunities for information, education, and social engagement. This marks a significant step towards fulfilling the state government’s commitment to uplifting its citizens. In the inaugural phase, 40 lakh women and girl students are set to benefit from this initiative.
The Chief Minister, while inaugurating the scheme, distributed smartphones to the first group of beneficiaries, ushering in a new era of connectivity and empowerment. He also unveiled the Digital Sakhi Handbook ‘Seekho Digital, Sikhao Digital,’ a comprehensive guide that equips recipients with essential knowledge about smartphone usage.
Not a freebie, but true medium of women’s empowerment: CM
Highlighting the scheme’s impact, Gehlot said that the Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana is not merely a freebie, but a true medium for women’s empowerment. This initiative aligns with our belief that knowledge is power. With smartphones in their hands, women will gain access to valuable information about various welfare schemes and be better equipped to contribute to society.
Rajasthan to become a leading state by 2030
Under the scheme, 1.35 crore women from Chiranjeevi families will receive smartphones equipped with 3 years of internet connectivity, creating a more inclusive digital landscape. The second phase is set to encompass an additional 80 lakh women. The Chief Minister expressed his optimism for Rajasthan’s trajectory, aiming to transform the state into a leading force by 2030 through collective effort and vision.
Late Rajiv Gandhi’s Dream Being Realised
Former Prime Minister Late Rajiv Gandhi’s aspiration of an IT revolution is realised today, the Chief Minister said. This monumental moment showcases how the integration of technology can foster development and progress across sectors. With more than 80 thousand e-Mitra centres providing over 600 services, Rajasthan is positioned as a national IT leader.
Minister for Planning Mamta Bhupesh lauded Rajasthan’s strides in women’s empowerment, envisioning a future where women take centre-stage in the state’s development. Former Education Minister Govind Singh Dotasara anticipates a revolution through the Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana, providing easy access to vital schemes and services.
Beneficiaries from across the state expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for launching the scheme. They said that the Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana not only symbolizes Rajasthan’s commitment to progress, but also its dedication to equal opportunities and women’s empowerment. The scheme sets a remarkable precedent, further solidifying Rajasthan’s status as a torchbearer for social change and technological advancement.
Ministers Dr. Mahesh Joshi, Lalchand Kataria, Bhajanlal Jatav, Tikaram Jully, Bhanwar Singh Bhati, MLA Ganga Devi, Krishna Poonia, Alok Beniwal, Gopal Meena, Amin Kagzi, former Union minister Bhanwar Jitendra Singh, Chief Secretary Usha Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, DoIT, Akhil Arora and other public representatives, officers and a large number of beneficiaries were present.
