Sanchar Mitra Scheme – Building a Cyber-Smart Nation

GS2 – Governance

Context:

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) expanded the Sanchar Mitra Scheme into a national digital literacy movement to combat rising cyber fraud.

Overview:

• What is It?
  A volunteer-driven outreach program empowering university students as Sanchar Mitras to promote telecom safety and cyber awareness.
• Focus Areas:
  • Digital hygiene
  • Safe telecom practices
  • Prevention of online fraud and misinformation
• Training & Engagement:
  • Training by National Communications Academy (NCA-T)
  • Topics: 5G, 6G, AI, EMF safety, cybersecurity
  • Outreach via community campaigns, schools, and NGOs
• Incentives:
  • Top volunteers gain internships, attend India Mobile Congress, or join international telecom forums
• Impact:
  • Strengthens digital inclusion and telecom literacy
  • Mobilises youth for nation-building through cyber-responsible behaviour