Rajasthan to give 1.3cr women phones with 3 years’ data free of cost

Ahead of the upcoming elections in Rajasthan, the state government has announced a scheme to distribute smartphones with three years of free data to 1.3 crore women under the Mukya Mantri Digital Sewa Yojana. The distribution process will begin on Thursday, with the first phase targeting 40 lakh beneficiaries, including 1.9 lakh women in Jaipur.

Initially, two smartphone models, Realmi and Redmi, will be provided under the scheme, followed by phones from companies like Samsung and Nokia. Each smartphone is valued at Rs 6,800, and the state government will allocate Rs 6,125 for the phone and Rs 675 for free internet. Additionally, the government will cover the annual internet charges of Rs 900 per beneficiary.

The initiative aims to bridge the digital divide and empower women in the state by providing them with access to smartphones and internet connectivity. The government believes that this initiative will enhance digital literacy among women and enable them to access various government services and information easily.

The distribution of smartphones with free data is a significant step towards creating a digitally inclusive society in Rajasthan. By providing women with the tools necessary to connect to the digital world, the government hopes to improve their overall well-being and empower them to participate fully in the digital era.

Through this initiative, the government also aims to ensure that women in rural areas have access to technology and can benefit from e-governance initiatives. The scheme’s focus on providing free internet for three years will ensure that women can continue to stay connected and utilize online resources effectively. The distribution process will take place through special camps across the state, making it convenient for beneficiaries to receive their smartphones. The inclusion of popular smartphone models from different companies will offer beneficiaries a wide range of options to choose from, catering to their preferences and needs.

Overall, the Mukya Mantri Digital Sewa Yojana is a commendable effort by the Rajasthan government to bridge the digital divide and empower women. It is a significant step towards creating a digitally inclusive society and ensuring that every woman has equal access to digital resources and opportunities.