Smartphone Yojna
A proponent of “Smartphone Yojna” is a variant title for government initiatives in India to provide smartphones, in the name of digital inclusion and empowerment, to specific demographics. Following are the initiatives that various states governments have taken, and to give a bird’s eye view of such schemes, their purpose, target groups and hurdles in implementation this report has been prepared.
Free Smartphone Scheme in Uttar Pradesh
Free Smartphone Yojana of Uttar Pradesh government: The B. Tech, B.A., MBBS final year students being targeted the most; A total number of 7 Lakh phones to be distributed; Launched on Saturday dated 25 December 2021 In the first phase, close to one lac smartphones and tablets would be given in Lucknow which will benefit nearly one crore students especially girls across the state. This initiative, which will provide access to education and digital literacy at an investment of around ₹2,035 crore.
Technical Rajasthan: Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana (IGS Yojana)
The Smt. Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana in Rajasthan was launched in August 2023 and is designed to promote women and girls. The benefits are available for the heads of families under Chiranjeevi Yojana, students from classes 9th-12th and widowed or destitute women. Every participant gets a free smartphone, 3-year unlimited internet data and mobile SIM card. The intention is to increase digital participation and provide education resources for women in the State of Rajasthan.
In Orissa, free smartphone plan for female farmers
Odisha Free Smartphone Yojana 2021 for Small and Marginal Women Farmers This program benefits to the extent that besides focusing on helping women get livelihoods, pertinent information is available for decision-making reducing the barriers — of both resources and information — to gender mainstreaming in agricultural development efforts.
Challenges and Criticisms
While there is the possibility of some benefits, they will have a number of challenges to overcome. Like the Mukhyamantri Digital Seva Yojana of Rajasthan, intended to provide 1.3 crore smartphones, was put on hold for re-evaluation. Critics also say it is a waste of resources to give devices to women who may already own smartphones. Moreover, political feuds can disrupt the continuity of such efforts.
Implications and Thoughts Going Forward
Now, while the distribution strategies for smartphones have the noble cause of removing the digital divide in focus this change bleeds over to classrooms as well. Studies of smartphones in education have shown that they distract from learning and have a negative impact on academic achievement. Evidence suggests that in-school use of smartphones bans can contribute to better outcomes and less bullying, so a balanced approach is important.
How to Avail Smartphone Yojna in Different States
Uttar Pradesh: Free Smartphone Yojana
Eligibility
- Final-year students of graduation and above, including those in B.Tech, B.A, B.Sc, MA, ITI, MBBS, MD, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs.
How to Apply
- Online Registration: Eligible students need to register on the official government portal.
- Documentation: Provide necessary documents such as student ID, proof of enrollment, and identity proof.
- Selection Process: The government will verify applications and select beneficiaries based on eligibility criteria.
Rajasthan: Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana (IGS Yojana)
Eligibility
- Women who are heads of families under the Chiranjeevi Yojana, girl students in classes 9 to 12, college and university students, and widowed or destitute women receiving pensions.
How to Apply
- Online Application: Visit the official Rajasthan government website to fill out the application form.
- Required Documents: Submit documents such as identity proof, family details, and educational certificates.
- Verification: The applications will be verified by the concerned authorities, and eligible candidates will receive smartphones.
Odisha: Free Smartphone Yojana for Women Farmers
Eligibility
- Small and marginal women farmers.
How to Apply
- Application Process: Interested women farmers can apply through the local agricultural offices or online portals set up by the Odisha government.
- Documentation: Provide proof of land ownership and identity documents.
- Distribution: Once verified, eligible farmers will be informed about the distribution schedule.
General Steps to Avail Smartphone Yojna
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria set by the respective state government.
- Gather Documents: Collect all necessary documents required for the application.
- Submit Application: Follow the application process as outlined by the state government, either online or offline.
- Follow Up: Keep track of your application status through the official portal or contact the relevant department for updates.
Here are the official websites for the smartphone yojnas in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Odisha:
Uttar Pradesh
- Website: Uttar Pradesh Government
- Look for the “Free Smartphone Yojana” section for details on eligibility and application procedures.
Rajasthan
- Website: Rajasthan Government
- You can find information about the “Indira Gandhi Smartphone Yojana” under the relevant schemes or announcements.
Odisha
- Website: Odisha Government
- Check for updates on the smartphone schemes for women farmers and other digital initiatives.
Conclusion
Smartphone Yojna in various states in India aim to promote digital awareness among students, women and farmers. While these programs have been game changers, the problems and criticism faced by them needs to be sorted out. Furthermore, due deliberation of the wider implications of smartphone use in educational milieu is required to optimize benefits alongside school-related learning outcomes.