PMGDISHA Full Guide: How to Apply, Eligibility, Certificate & Benefits

If you have ever wondered how people in rural India can learn computers, use the internet, or even do online payments without spending money, then here’s the answer — PMGDISHA (Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan).

This scheme is one of the biggest digital literacy programs in the world, launched by the Government of India to make rural households digitally skilled. Let’s go step by step and understand everything about PMGDISHA — from what it is, who can apply, how to register, training process, certification, benefits, and challenges.

What is PMGDISHA?

PMGDISHA stands for Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan. It was launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).

The aim of this program is to train 6 crore (60 million) rural households in basic digital skills. It is specially designed for people between 14 to 60 years of age who have little or no digital knowledge.

Once trained, these citizens can use computers, smartphones, the internet, email, online banking, and government digital services.

Objectives of PMGDISHA

The scheme was started with some clear goals:

• Bridge the digital divide between rural and urban India.
  
• Make one person per rural household digitally literate.
  
• Promote digital transactions like UPI, mobile banking, and wallets.
  
• Help citizens access government services online.
  
• Boost employment opportunities by teaching essential digital skills.
  

Key Features of PMGDISHA

Here are the main highlights of the scheme:

• Free Training – No fees, training is 100% free.
  
• Wide Coverage – Covers 6 crore rural households across India.
  
• Easy Enrollment – Citizens can apply online or through CSCs (Common Services Centres).
  
• Certification – After training, participants receive a government-approved certificate stored in DigiLocker.
  
• Short Duration – Training is about 20 hours (spread over a few days).
  

Eligibility Criteria

Not everyone can apply. To join PMGDISHA, you must meet these conditions:

• Age – Between 14 and 60 years.
  
• Location – Must be a resident of rural India.
  
• Digital Knowledge – Should have no prior digital literacy.
  
• Education – No restriction, anyone can join.
  
• Household Rule – Only one person per household is eligible.
  

How to Enroll in PMGDISHA?

There are two simple ways to apply:

1. Through CSC (Common Services Centre)

• Visit your nearest CSC centre in the village.
  
• Give your Aadhaar card, mobile number, and address proof.
  
• The operator will enroll you in the scheme.
  

2. Online Self-Enrollment

• Go to the official website – www.pmgdisha.in.
  
• Click on Direct Candidate and fill in your details.
  
• Upload Aadhaar and address proof.
  
• Once verified, you can start your training.
  

Training Process in PMGDISHA

The training is practical and simple, covering all basic skills. The syllabus includes:

• Basic Computer Knowledge – How to use a computer, keyboard, and mouse.
  
• Internet Use – Browsing websites, searching on Google, sending emails.
  
• Government Services – Accessing online portals like Digital India, ration card, pension schemes, etc.
  
• Digital Payments – Using UPI, net banking, mobile wallets.
  
• Cyber Safety – How to stay safe from online frauds and scams.
  
• Online Learning – Accessing educational platforms like SWAYAM and NPTEL.
  

PMGDISHA Certificate

After training, you have to give a small test. If you pass, you will get a PMGDISHA certificate.

• The certificate is issued by the Government of India.
  
• It is stored in DigiLocker (you can download anytime).
  
• This certificate proves you are digitally literate.
  

Benefits of PMGDISHA

The program has already changed the lives of lakhs of rural citizens. Some key benefits are:

• Access to Government Services – Apply for Aadhaar, ration cards, and schemes online.
  
• Better Employment Opportunities – Digital skills help in job applications and freelancing.
  
• Financial Inclusion – Villagers can use digital payments, UPI, and online banking.
  
• Social Empowerment – Stay connected via email, WhatsApp, and social media.
  
• Bridging the Gap – Reducing the difference between urban and rural digital access.
  

Challenges of PMGDISHA

Despite its success, the scheme faces a few issues:

• Poor Internet Connectivity in remote villages.
  
• Lack of Awareness among rural citizens.
  
• Limited Infrastructure – Not enough devices like computers and smartphones.
  
• Trust Issues – Many still hesitate to use online platforms.
  

Conclusion

PMGDISHA is more than just a training program — it is a digital revolution for rural India. By providing free digital literacy, the government is ensuring that villagers are not left behind in today’s digital age.

Yes, there are challenges, but with growing awareness and better connectivity, PMGDISHA is opening doors to employment, education, and empowerment for millions of Indians.

If you or someone you know lives in rural India and wants to learn digital skills, PMGDISHA is the best opportunity.

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