Agencies
New Delhi, Aug 16: The Digital India programme, launched on July 1, 2015, to facilitate digital service delivery to citizens, has proven its immense success. Underlining its commitment to digital transformation, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has granted approval for the expansion of the Digital India programme, allocating a total outlay of Rs 14,903 crores. This expansion will encompass the following key initiatives: Over 6.25 lakh IT professionals will undergo re-skilling and up-skilling, enhancing their skills to align with emerging technologies and industry demands. Around 2.65 lakh individuals will receive training in information security, equipping them to address the growing challenges of cybersecurity. An additional 540 services will be integrated into the UMANG platform, complementing the existing 1,700+ services. Nine new supercomputers will be added to the existing 18, bolstering India's capabilities in high-performance computing. The multi-language translation tool, currently accessible in 10 languages, will be extended to all 22 languages listed in Schedule 8 of the Constitution. NKN, connecting 1,787 educational institutions, will undergo modernization to further advance collaborative learning and research. The digital document verification facility offered by DigiLocker will be made available to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and other organizations. Around 1,200 startups in Tier 2/3 cities will receive support, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in these regions. Three new Centers of Excellence in AI will be established, focusing on health, agriculture, and sustainable cities. Cyber-awareness courses will be conducted for approximately 12 crore college students, enhancing their understanding of cybersecurity. New cybersecurity initiatives will include the development of tools and the integration of over 200 sites with the National Cyber Coordination Centre. This strategic expansion of the Digital India programme is poised to fuel India's digital economy, improve access to digital services, and support the country's IT and electronics ecosystem. The initiative aligns with India's ongoing commitment to digital advancement and tech-driven progress. |