Digital Didi Changing Mindsets, Practices and Narratives
The G20 Conference concluded recently in New Delhi, under India’s presidency with several accolades and a handful of criticism. This week we analyse the event for what it entails for digital public infrastructure. One of the points the preamble of the G20 New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration commits to:
Danish, a 22-year-old from Kupwara, had been searching for a job since graduating from school. Unfortunately due to the stigma attached to his disability he was unable to secure a job. Coming from an economically backward family, he was responsible for providing financial support to his family. His father, a farmer, is sick because of which he is unable to earn a livelihood.
Saba, DEF’s coordinator in Kupwara met Danish and provided digital literacy training to him. A few months later DEF introduced the Samarth SoochnaPreneur program that enables persons with disabilities to become digital entrepreneurs who provide access to information, digital literacy, health and livelihood to their communities. Seeing Danish’s interest in the program and his willingness to become an entrepreneur, Saba started the SoochnaPreneur training with him.
Once he was ready he was given digital equipment and Saba helped him set up the centre. It’s been three months now and he has been earning about 8,000 to 10,000 rupees per month by providing digital services to his community members. “I am very grateful for this opportunity; now I serve my community members and also earn a living for myself” he said.
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