The Government of Uttar Pradesh, under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, is proud to announce the initiation of the much-anticipated “Swami Vivekanand Yuva Sashaktikaran Scheme.” This ambitious program aims to provide 25 lakh free smartphones to students, promoting digital access and empowerment among the youth. The distribution of these smartphones will commence from next month, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to education and technology advancement.
1. Distribution of 3.75 Lakh Samsung and Lava Smartphones: In the first phase of the scheme, 3.75 lakh Samsung and Lava smartphones will be distributed to eligible beneficiaries. This initiative has received a financial allocation of Rs 372 crore, demonstrating the government’s unwavering commitment to empowering the youth through digital means.
2. Implementation through UP Development Systems Corporation Ltd: UP Development Systems Corporation Ltd has been appointed as the nodal agency for the seamless execution of the Swami Vivekanand Yuva Sashaktikaran Scheme. This organization will play a pivotal role in coordinating the procurement and distribution of smartphones to deserving students and skill development course participants.
3. Beneficiaries: The scheme targets a wide range of beneficiaries, including graduate, postgraduate, and diploma students, as well as individuals enrolled in skill development courses. The government envisions providing these smartphones free of cost to enhance educational and vocational opportunities for the youth.
4. Five-Year Distribution Plan: Over the course of five years, the government aims to provide 25 lakh smartphones and tablets to the eligible beneficiaries, ensuring the long-term impact of this digital empowerment initiative.
5. Procurement from Reputed Firms: Through the Government e-Marketplace (GEM) portal, four reputed companies have been selected to supply the smartphones for the scheme. These companies include Vision Distribution Pvt Ltd (7.84 lakh phones), Celkon Impex Pvt Ltd (6.86 lakh phones), NF Infratech Service Pvt Ltd (5.88 lakh phones), and Instant Procurement Services Pvt Ltd (4.41 lakh Lava phones). The smartphones provided by these firms will be of Samsung make, assuring quality and reliability.
6. Budget Allocation: In the current financial year, a budget of Rs 3,600 crore has been approved for the Swami Vivekanand Yuva Sashaktikaran Scheme. This substantial allocation underscores the government’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering educational growth.
7. Release of Funds: The release of Rs 371.9 crore for the first phase of smartphone distribution has been approved by the Governor, facilitating the timely commencement of this transformative program.
The Government of Uttar Pradesh believes that access to technology is a fundamental right and a catalyst for empowering the youth to realize their full potential. The Swami Vivekanand Yuva Sashaktikaran Scheme stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the digital age.
