In a continued push towards a digitally empowered society, the Government of India’s National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) has crossed a significant milestone, with millions of citizens now digitally literate under the programme.
Launched in 2014 with the aim of providing basic digital skills to citizens across socio-economic segments, the mission focuses on empowering people with the ability to operate computers, use the Internet, and safely access digital services. The scheme’s reach has expanded significantly in recent years as part of the government’s broader vision of a digitally inclusive India.
According to officials from the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, over 50 million individuals have benefitted from the programme since its inception. Special emphasis has been placed on training women, rural populations, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities, groups that have historically faced barriers to digital access.
Under the initiative, digital literacy training is delivered through accredited training partners, community centres, and mobile camps. Participants learn fundamental skills such as creating and using email accounts, accessing government services online, conducting digital transactions, and understanding cyber safety and privacy.
“The digital world should not feel inaccessible to anyone,” said an official from the ministry. “Our aim is to equip every citizen with the confidence to navigate essential services, educational platforms, and economic opportunities online.”
In states like Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan, local governments have played a proactive role by organising community-level camps and partnering with non-governmental organisations to reach remote areas. Schools and colleges have also integrated digital literacy modules into their curricula, building foundational skills among students from an early age.
Despite notable progress, experts emphasise the need for ongoing support and advanced training to bridge deeper gaps in digital participation. Issues such as limited internet connectivity in remote regions and the cost of devices remain challenges that need coordinated policy action.
As India advances into an increasingly digital future, the National Digital Literacy Mission remains central to the government’s strategy of ensuring that no citizen is left behind in the digital revolution — from accessing e-learning tools to participating in digital commerce and governance.
