National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM)

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Empowering citizens in a digital world! Learn about India’s National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM), its goals, benefits, and how you can be a part of the movement.

India’s rapid digital transformation has unlocked a vast array of opportunities. However, a significant portion of the population still lacks the skills to harness the full potential of digital technologies. Recognizing this gap, the Government of India launched the National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM), an ambitious initiative aimed at empowering citizens with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world confidently.

What is the National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM)?

The NDLM, also known as the Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA), is a flagship program under the Digital India initiative. It envisions a digitally literate and empowered society where every citizen can leverage technology to improve their lives. The mission focuses on imparting essential digital literacy skills to individuals, particularly those residing in rural areas, who may not have had prior exposure to technology.

Overview of NDLM

The Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA) or National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) Scheme has been formulated to impart IT training to 52.5 lakh persons, including Anganwadi and ASHA workers and authorized ration dealers in all the States/UTs across the country so that the non-IT literate citizens are trained to become IT literate so as to enable them to actively and effectively participate in the democratic and developmental process and also enhance their livelihood.

Altogether 52.5 lakh persons, including Anganwadi and ASHA workers and authorized ration dealers will be trained under the programme in two phases. In the first phase, 10 lakh beneficiaries will be trained under the scheme. Out of this, 6.3 lakh beneficiaries will be trained on Level 1 and 2.7 lakh beneficiaries will be trained on Level 2. Nine lakh beneficiaries will be eligible for training fee support from the government. The rest 100,000 beneficiaries will be trained by the industry and civil society partners. Under Phase II, 42.5 lakh persons will be trained, which also includes Anganwadi and ASHA workers and authorized ration dealers.

Definition of DIGITAL LITERACY

Digital Literacy is the ability of individuals and communities to understand and use digital technologies for meaningful actions within life situations.
National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Ajmer is conducting courses under National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) as part of Prime Minister’s vision of “Digital India”.
Under the Scheme one in every eligible household in selected Blocks in each State/ UT of the country will be imparted computer skills.
The objective is to impart basic ICT skills relevant to the need of the trainees, which would enable the citizens to use IT and related applications and participate actively in the democratic process and further enhance opportunities for their livelihood. The persons shall be able to access information, knowledge and skill through the use of digital devices. The following is the course structure:

Levels of Training

Two levels of training under the SCHEME

The two levels of IT training envisaged under the Scheme will have the following broad objectives:

1. Appreciation of Digital Literacy (Level 1)

To make a person IT literate, so that he/ she can operate digital devices, like mobile phones, tablets, etc., send and receive emails and search Internet for information, etc.

2. Basics of Digital Literacy (Level 2)

Besides IT literacy at a higher level, the citizen would also be trained to effectively access the various e-Governance services being offered to the citizen by the Government and other agencies.

The Goals of the NDLM

The NDLM has several key objectives:

Bridge the Digital Divide: By equipping citizens with digital literacy skills, the NDLM aims to bridge the gap between those who have access to technology and those who don’t. This fosters inclusive growth and ensures everyone can benefit from the digital revolution.
Empowerment and Livelihood Enhancement: Digital literacy equips individuals with the ability to access government services online, find employment opportunities, and participate in the digital economy. This empowers them to improve their livelihoods and living standards.
Social Inclusion: The NDLM promotes social inclusion by enabling individuals from all walks of life to connect with others, access information, and participate in online communities.
Enhanced Governance and Service Delivery: A digitally literate population can effectively engage with government services and programs offered online. This improves transparency and efficiency in governance.

Key Components of the NDLM

The NDLM operates through a multi-pronged approach:

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA):This sub-scheme focuses on rural areas, aiming to train one person per household in basic digital literacy skills. These skills include using mobile phones, accessing the internet, making online transactions, and utilizing government e-services.
Training Centers and Partners: A network of training centers across the country delivers NDLM programs. These centers are managed by government bodies, NGOs, and private institutions.
Trainers and Volunteers: Trained professionals and volunteers conduct the training sessions, ensuring accessibility and quality instruction.
Curriculum and Certification: The NDLM curriculum covers essential digital literacy modules, with participants receiving certificates upon successful completion.

Benefits of the NDLM

The NDLM offers a multitude of benefits for individuals and society as a whole:

Increased Access to Information and Services: Digital literacy empowers individuals to access government services, educational resources, healthcare information, and other essential online resources.
Improved Communication and Collaboration: The ability to use digital communication tools fosters better communication and collaboration within communities.
Enhanced Financial Inclusion: Digital literacy enables individuals to participate in the digital economy, access online banking facilities, and make online transactions.
Boosted Employability: In today’s job market, digital skills are increasingly in demand. The NDLM equips individuals with the necessary skills to compete for better employment opportunities.
Empowerment and Social Transformation: Digital literacy empowers individuals to become active participants in the digital world, fostering social transformation and inclusive growth.

Eligibility Criteria:

The eligibility for the National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) primarily focuses on bridging the digital divide in rural areas. However, it offers some flexibility for wider participation:

Target Audience: The NDLM prioritizes individuals residing in rural areas with little to no prior experience using technology. This program equips them with the foundational skills to navigate the digital world.
Open to All: While the focus is on rural areas, the NDLM doesn’t strictly exclude anyone. Anyone interested in acquiring digital literacy skills can enroll in the program, regardless of location.

Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

Age: The ideal age range for NDLM participants is between 14 and 60 years.
Location: Priority is given to residents of rural areas in India. However, urban residents can also participate.
Educational Background: There’s no strict educational requirement. However, the NDLM offers two levels with slightly different entry points:
- Level 1: This level caters to individuals with either limited literacy (up to 7th standard) or those who haven’t had any formal education.
- Level 2: This level is designed for those with at least an 8th-standard education.

Additional Considerations:

Financial Background: The NDLM programs are typically free of charge for individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Below Poverty Line (BPL) households.
General Candidates: There might be a nominal fee associated with the training for general category candidates, depending on the course level

How You Can Get Involved in the NDLM

There are several ways you can be a part of the NDLM’s success story:

Enroll in a Training Program: If you haven’t yet acquired digital literacy skills, consider enrolling in an NDLM training program in your area.
Become a Trainer or Volunteer: If you possess digital literacy skills and a passion for helping others, you can contribute by becoming a trainer or volunteer with the NDLM.
Spread Awareness: Raise awareness about the NDLM within your community and encourage others to participate in its programs.

NDLM: FAQs

Who is eligible for the NDLM?

The NDLM primarily targets individuals residing in rural areas who lack prior exposure to digital technologies. However, the program is open to anyone interested in acquiring digital literacy skills.

What are the costs involved in participating in the NDLM?

The NDLM programs are typically offered free of charge for members of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. For general candidates, there may be a nominal fee associated with the training, depending on the level of the course.

How can I enroll in an NDLM training program?

You can inquire about NDLM training programs in your area by contacting:

Local government offices
Community centers
Common Service Centers (CSCs)
The official NDLM website (if available)

What are the different levels of training offered under the NDLM?

The NDLM curriculum typically consists of two levels:

Level 1: This level focuses on basic digital literacy skills, such as using mobile phones, accessing the internet, and navigating essential online applications.
Level 2: This level builds upon the foundation set in Level 1 and introduces more advanced topics like using government e-services, online transactions, and digital security practices.

How long do the NDLM training programs typically last?

The duration of the NDLM training programs can vary depending on the specific level and curriculum offered. They typically range from a few days to a few weeks.

What will I receive upon completing the NDLM training program?

Upon successful completion of the NDLM training program, participants will receive a certificate of achievement.

Can I become a trainer or volunteer for the NDLM?

Yes, if you possess digital literacy skills and a passion for helping others, you can contribute to the NDLM by becoming a trainer or volunteer. You can inquire about these opportunities through the same channels mentioned for program enrollment.

The NDLM’s Legacy and Conclusion

The NDLM has played a pivotal role in India’s digital inclusion journey. While the initial phase of the mission has concluded, its legacy continues to inspire ongoing efforts towards digital literacy. Here’s a glimpse into the achievements and the road ahead:

Measurable Impact: Launched in 2014, the NDLM successfully trained over 5 crore (50 million) individuals across the country. This substantial number reflects the program’s reach and effectiveness in empowering citizens with digital skills.
Building on Success:The Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) continues to bridge the digital divide in rural India. This sub-scheme remains active, offering essential digital literacy training to individuals in rural communities.
Looking Ahead: Recognizing the evolving digital landscape, the government is constantly exploring new avenues to enhance digital literacy initiatives. This may involve incorporating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to personalize learning experiences and cater to diverse needs.

Conclusion

The National Digital Literacy Mission stands as a testament to India’s commitment to building a digitally inclusive society. By equipping citizens with the necessary skills to navigate the digital world, the NDLM empowers individuals, fosters economic growth, and paves the way for a brighter digital future for all. As technology continues to advance, continuous efforts are crucial to ensure everyone has the opportunity to reap the benefits of the digital age.