Porvorim, August 7, 2025: With an eye on inclusion and innovation, the Government of Goa has launched the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana, a transformative scheme that aims to digitally empower women, particularly in rural and underserved areas of the state.
The scheme was officially launched at the PAC Hall, Secretariat, by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, along with Minister for ITE&C Rohan A. Khaunte, and dignitaries from Info Tech Corporation of Goa Ltd. (ITG) and the Directorate of IT.
“We are taking digital literacy to the Gramin women ensuring they are equipped with the confidence and skills to navigate today’s digital world,” said Dr. Sawant.
🎯 Why This Scheme Matters
As digital technologies increasingly shape economies and services, the gap between those with access and those without is growing. Women in rural areas often find themselves on the wrong side of this divide. This scheme directly addresses that gap by providing:
- Essential digital literacy: Using smartphones, browsing the internet, accessing government schemes and financial tools.
- Localized training: Conducted in familiar, accessible public venues such as panchayat halls, schools, or religious buildings.
Empowerment through knowledge: Digital fluency is linked to better financial independence, access to opportunities, and self-confidence.
🧑💻 Who Can Apply?
- Women aged 18 and above
- Must be a resident of Goa for 15+ years
Open to all educational and socioeconomic backgrounds
🏫 Where & How Will Training Be Conducted?
Training will be facilitated through:
- Empanelled IT Knowledge Centres (ITKCs)
- Common Service Centres (CSCs)
- Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs)
Classes will be hosted in accessible locations such as schools, panchayat halls, or community spaces.
💸 Scheme Benefits & Financial Provisions
- ₹500 per participant allocated to cover training program
- 80% to training partner (CSC/ITKC)
- 20% to ITG
- 80% to training partner (CSC/ITKC)
- ₹100 additional per person to CSCs/VLEs for sessions in public spaces (infrastructure support)
Three-year validity, with potential for renewal
💬 Government’s Vision
Rohan Khaunte, Minister for ITE&C, stated:
“This initiative supports Viksit Bharat 2047 and our goal of women-led development. By empowering women with digital skills, we open pathways to income generation, confidence, and active participation in the digital economy.”
🌐 Looking Ahead
The launch of the Mahila Digital Sashaktikaran Yojana is part of Goa’s broader vision to become a digitally inclusive and economically equitable state. With strong government support and a clear implementation plan, this initiative is poised to transform the lives of thousands of women—one screen, one skill, and one empowered choice at a time.
