In New Delhi [India], Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the transformative impact of Digital India and hailed the successful completion of nine years of the initiative and said that Digital India symbolizes an empowered India that drives ease of living and transparency . He also shared a glimpse of the progress made over the past decade.

In a new MyGovIndia post on social media platform

He posted: "A Digital India is an empowered India, driving 'ease of living' and transparency. This thread gives a glimpse of the progress made in a decade through effective use of technology."
A Digital India It is an empowered India, driving 'ease of living' and transparency. This thread offers a glimpse of the progress made in a decade through the effective use of technology. https://t.co/xrEIEjmRaW

Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 1, 2024

MyGovIndia's original post celebrated the significant achievements of the Digital India campaign, launched by the Modi Government on July 1, 2015. The post emphasized the profound impact of the initiative and stated: "Today, India celebrates 9 years of the initiative Modi Government's Digital India, transforming lives across the country. The impact of #DigitalIndia is astonishing – check out these jaw-dropping numbers #NewIndia #9YearsOfDigitalIndia."

The Digital India initiative was conceived to make government services accessible to all citizens electronically, thereby fostering a more inclusive and efficient society.

Launched by Prime Minister Modi, the campaign seeks to close the digital divide by improving online infrastructure and expanding internet connectivity, especially in rural areas. The program encompasses three main components: the development of a secure and stable digital infrastructure, the delivering government services digitally and promoting universal digital literacy.

Since its inception, Digital India has significantly strengthened the country's digital infrastructure. The initiative has facilitated the creation of BharatNet, a project aimed at connecting rural India with high-speed Internet.

This project alone has laid the foundation for millions of Indians to access online services and information, contributing to a more connected and informed population. One of the most notable achievements of Digital India is the widespread adoption of the Aadhaar system, which has provided 130 million Indians with a digital biometric identity.

This system has streamlined numerous government services and welfare programs, ensuring that benefits reach their intended recipients without the bureaucratic red tape that often plagued traditional systems.

The Digital India initiative has also driven a massive increase in internet and mobile phone usage. As of December 31, 2018, India had 150 crore mobile phones, including 100.6 crore smartphones, and 130 crore internet users. This growth has not only connected millions of Indians, It has also driven the expansion of e-commerce and digital payments, transforming the way businesses operate and consumers shop.

Digital India has played a pivotal role in the transition of government services to digital platforms.

This change has made services more accessible and efficient, from applying for licenses and certificates to accessing educational and healthcare resources. The initiative has also improved transparency and accountability in governance, reducing opportunities of corruption and improving the provision of public services.

The Digital India campaign has created synergies with other key government schemes such as Make in India, Startup India and Atmanirbhar Bharat.

These initiatives have worked collectively to create a more self-reliant and innovative India, fostering economic growth and generating employment opportunities. By promoting local manufacturing and investment in the technology sector, Digital India has supported the Make in India initiative.

This has not only boosted the economy but has also positioned India as a global hub for technological innovation and manufacturing.

Digital India has provided fertile ground for startups, with improved digital infrastructure and connectivity paving the way for startups. The ease of doing business has improved significantly, making it easier for entrepreneurs to launch and grow their startups.

The drive towards digital literacy and self-reliance under Digital India aligns with the broader goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

By equipping citizens with the skills and tools necessary to succeed in a digital economy, the initiative is helping to build a more resilient and self-reliant nation.