Common Service Centres (CSC)

Why in News?

Common Service Centre e-Governance Services India Limited (CSC SPV) celebrated 10 Years of Digital India at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, Dwarka, New Delhi.

• Common Service Centres (CSCs) are designed to provide digital access and services, particularly in rural and remote areas.
• It is a key part of Digital India program.
• Established under - The National e-Governance Plan (NeGP) in 2006.
• Nodal Ministry - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
• Scope Expansion - In 2015, to offer a wider variety of services and enhance digital inclusion.
• Key objectives - To achieve digital, economic, educational, skill development, and social inclusion by providing access to relevant services in underserved communities.
• Services offered
  1. e-Governance Services - Including services related to Aadhaar, PAN Card, Ration Card, birth/death/marriage certificates, Voter ID, driving licenses, e-District services, and local government schemes.
  2. Financial Services - Covering banking, insurance, pension schemes, loan services, and DigiPay (AEPS).
  3. Education - Providing online education, exam preparation, scholarship applications, and skill development programs.
  4. Healthcare Services - Offering telemedicine, health insurance applications, and health information.
  5. Other Services - Including bill payments, recharge services, ticket booking, and e-commerce.
• Managed by - Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), who are residents trained and supported by the CSC Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV).
• The CSC SPV is overseen by the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) and manages the implementation and service delivery framework.
• Achievements - CSC has reached nearly 90% of the country's villages.
• Recent Key announcements
  • Free AI training for 10 lakh individuals, with priority for all VLEs.
  • Urged all VLEs to start offering IRCTC services.
  • Committed to speaking with Chief Ministers to integrate state IT agencies with CSC-SPV.

Reference

PIB| Celebrating 10 years of the Digital India