Sonipat: A landmark initiative in rural technological advancement was inaugurated yesterday with the launch of the RuTAGe Smart Village Center (RSVC) in Mandaura village, Sonipat. The initiative, developed under the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India, aims to bridge the gap between rural needs and technological solutions, ensuring that innovation reaches grassroots communities.
The RSVC was inaugurated by Prof. Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, alongside Commodore Sridhar Kotra, Founder of the Modern Village Foundation, and Mr. DP Goel, Chairman of the Chaalis Gaon Vikas Parishad. Both partners played a key role in turning this visionary initiative into reality.
Speaking at the inauguration, Prof. Sood highlighted that the RSVC is a crucial step toward empowering rural communities through technology, addressing key challenges such as animal intrusion prevention, organic farming, water conservation, and livelihood generation. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with the vision of Prof. CK Prahalad, who championed the idea of bringing technology to the bottom of the pyramid to improve rural livelihoods.
The RSVC model integrates cutting-edge technologies such as satellite data, water monitoring kits, solar power, IoT-based solutions, and assistive technologies. These innovations are tailored to the specific needs of rural communities, providing solutions in agriculture, waste management, financial inclusion, affordable housing, and capacity building.
Key Features of the RuTAGe Smart Village Center (RSVC) Model
- Permanent Rural Technology Hub: The RSVC is established at the Panchayat level, serving 15-20 villages over several years, ensuring deep engagement and trust-building within communities.
- Technology-Driven Solutions: The center offers 12 technology tracks, covering agriculture, livelihood and entrepreneurship, renewable energy, assistive technologies, and digital financial inclusion.
- Market Linkages & Government Support: Collaboration with platforms like ONDC, Amazon, and Market Mirchi (a RuTAG innovation by IIT Bombay) enables rural producers to sell their goods effectively. A Government Schemes Help Desk provides villagers with crucial information about financial assistance and welfare programs.
- Integration with National Policies: The initiative aligns with key ministries such as Rural Development, Agriculture, Animal Husbandry, and Labour, ensuring that rural communities benefit from government schemes.
- Expansion Plans: The RSVC model is set to scale, with 20 new centers planned across India. The Techpreneurs (Foot Soldiers) program will empower women entrepreneurs to promote and sell technologies in local communities, ensuring long-term sustainability.
The launch event witnessed the presence of steering committee members from various ministries, foundations, corporates, and NGOs, who have played a crucial role in making the RSVC a reality. Their support ensures that the initiative will have a lasting impact not just on Mandaura but on rural communities across India.
With Mandaura now serving as a model village, the initiative is set to inspire and mentor future RSVCs nationwide. The Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring and expansion, making rural India smarter, self-reliant, and technologically empowered.
Comments are closed.