Jyotiraditya Scindia Launches Samriddhi Kendra Under Samriddh Gram Phygital Pilot

DoT Introduces Phygital Service Model for Rural Development in Madhya Pradesh

Union Minister Jyotiraditya M. Scindia inaugurated a Samriddhi Kendra in Umri Village under the Samriddh Gram Phygital Services Pilot Initiative launched by the Department of Telecommunications . The initiative demonstrates an integrated service delivery approach that combines physical infrastructure with digital platforms to expand access to essential services in rural areas. The project highlights how improved connectivity under the BharatNet can strengthen governance and economic opportunities at the village level.

Phygital Model for Rural Service Delivery

The Samriddhi Kendra functions as a unified service hub located in the Panchayat Bhawan of Umri Village . It integrates physical assistance with digital technologies to provide multiple services through a single platform.

Key services include educational resources, skill development programmes, agricultural advisory support, telemedicine facilities, e-governance services, financial inclusion services and e-commerce access. The phygital model aims to simplify service access for rural citizens while promoting digital participation in governance and economic activities.

Multi-State Pilot Implementation

The centre in Umri forms part of a pilot programme covering three villages across different states. In addition to Umri Village , the project also includes Narakoduru and Chaurawala .

Each Samriddhi Kendra is designed to support residents within a five-kilometre radius. By implementing the initiative across varied regions, policymakers aim to evaluate how integrated digital service centres function in different rural environments.

Role of BharatNet in Rural Connectivity

The initiative builds upon the infrastructure created under BharatNet , one of the largest rural broadband connectivity projects globally. The programme seeks to provide high-speed internet access to Gram Panchayats across the country.

Through the Samriddh Gram pilot, authorities aim to demonstrate how broadband connectivity can support sectors such as healthcare, education, governance and entrepreneurship in rural communities.

Strengthening Rural Digital Ecosystems

The pilot initiative is being implemented by the Department of Telecommunications with operational support from the Digital Empowerment Foundation .

The project is expected to provide valuable insights into building integrated digital ecosystems in villages. If successful, the model may be expanded to other rural areas to improve service accessibility, strengthen local governance and promote inclusive socio-economic development.

Exam-Focused Points

• BharatNet aims to provide high-speed internet connectivity to Gram Panchayats across India .

• Phygital services combine physical service delivery with digital platforms .

• The Samriddh Gram Phygital Services Pilot covers villages in Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh .

• The initiative is implemented by the Department of Telecommunications .

• Integrated rural digital hubs can support telemedicine, education, governance and e-commerce services .