Common Service Centres are transforming lives in rural India by offering employment opportunities and delivering digital services

In the expansive rural landscapes of India, where digital access was once a distant aspiration, Common Service Centres (CSCs) have emerged as transformative agents. Operated by CSC e-Governance, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) under the Ministry of Electronics and IT (MeitY) of the Government of India, these centers provide a myriad of services to citizens in rural areas. The objective of these centers is to provide the benefits of government schemes by providing e-governance facilities to the people, especially in the villages of the country. Boasting over 500 services, CSCs act as vital information and communication technology access points, seamlessly connecting citizens to digital government resources and business services.

The Success of CSCs: The impact of CSCs on rural India becomes apparent when examining the statistics. Since their inception, these centres have touched the lives of millions, becoming a beacon of digital inclusion across the country. The success of CSCs transcends mere numbers; it is a narrative of empowerment, closing the gap between urban and rural areas through digital avenues.

Tele-Law Scheme: Among the multitude of services offered by CSCs, the Tele-Law Scheme stands out as a beacon of justice. Department of Justice (DoJ) has entrusted a task to CSC e-Governance Service India Limited for mainstreaming legal information, legal aid, and advice to the marginalized communities through Common Services Center (CSC). Launched in 2017 as a pilot project in the Northeast and Jammu & Kashmir, this initiative aimed to bring legal aid to the doorsteps of marginalized communities.

Utilizing video-conferencing infrastructure at CSC centers, citizens can connect with panel lawyers, seeking advice and assistance. The success of the pilot project led to its expansion in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and subsequently to all aspirational districts across the country. As of April 2023, Tele-Law has reached an impressive 2,50,000 CSCs in 765 districts, providing free legal services to all sections of the community. Real-time data from the Tele-Law Dashboard showcases its impact, with over 65 lakh cases registered and legal advice extended to more than 64 lakh beneficiaries.

Online Resume Maker: In the digital age, job hunting has evolved, and CSCs have adapted to this change by introducing the Online Resume Maker tool. This AI-based product, available on the Digital Seva Portal, empowers individuals to create professional resumes tailored to their skill sets.

"The impact of the Online Resume Maker service is evident in its features, providing AI-driven content, a choice of professional templates, and seamless integration with job portals like Rozgar.com. The service not only enhances the job application process but also opens doors to daily job alerts, direct calls from recruiters, and downloadable mobile applications with advanced features," says Sanjay Kumar Rakesh, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer at CSC e-Governance Services India Limited.

Cultivating Prosperity

The Agriculture Department of CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd, established in 2019-20, has redefined the landscape of agricultural services in the country. Operating through the CSC eAgri portal, the department has achieved significant milestones, surpassing business turnovers and fostering collaborations with leading agricultural brands.

The success of the Agriculture Department is marked by its achievements in FPO network expansion, business growth, brand collaborations, retail portals for VLEs, KVK Crop Healthcare Service, PACS Project, and SFAC Value Chain Organization.

Digital transformation, financial transactions, PACS onboarding, and progress in the SFAC project highlight the impact of the CSC eAgri portal on the agricultural sector. With over 46 lakh transactions and the onboarding of 50,000+ PACS into the CSC network, the department's role in promoting e-governance services and digital agribusiness is commendable.

"The journey of Common Service Centres (CSCs) in India continues to be one of sustained growth and innovation. As of the latest data available, the network of CSCs has expanded its reach to even the remotest corners of the country, acting as catalysts for rural development. The commitment to providing over 500 services reflects the adaptability and responsiveness of CSCs to the evolving needs of the population," says Sanjay Kumar Rakesh.

 (The writer is a senior journalist; views are personal)